| |
|
Killer Whales
APRIL 2005
|
Snorkling Orcas
Photograph by Flip Nicklin
A family of killer whales glides through Alaska's Kenai Fjords National Park. Named by scientists and schoolchildren, the mother, Aurora, at left, swims with her daughter, Angiak, middle, and son, Herring Pete, easily spotted by his huge fin. These orcas are classified as residents, fish-eaters that tend to visit certain areas. Two other groups of orcas have been classified along the west coast of North America: Transient meat-eaters that travel great distances in search of dolphins, seals, and other prey; and offshores, lesser known orcas that stay farther out to sea. Study of these groups has revealed that killer whales are far more diverse in diet and behavior than previously thought. They're also clannish, relying on extended family networks to pass on behaviors crucial to survival, like corralling schools of fish or hunting dolphins and seals.
|
|
 |
|
Photo Fast Facts
|
Camera: Nikon D100
Film Type: Digital
Lens: 80-200mm, f/2.8
Speed and F-Stop: 1/100 @ f/8
|
|
Weather Conditions: Calm and cool
Time of Day: 7:30 p.m.
Lighting Techniques: Available light
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
