Among the 18 species of
whales and dolphins in Hawaii, the false killer whale is one of the most
endangered. In 2012, the NOAA recognized a population of only 150
individuals inhabiting Hawaiian waters.Perhaps this is exactly the reason
why, the dwindling population of these rare sea mammals, sparks our curiosity to understand them better.
Similarities and differences between the false killer whale and the true killer whale
Although
classified as oceanic dolphins, false killer whales derive their name
from the Orca, the “true” killer whales, with which they share a large
number of characteristics, including their charcoal black
appearance.Both species mature late with females becoming reproductively
active at around the age of 10 years and males at about the age of 18
years! They only calve once in 6 to 7 years, and females experience
menopause. On rare occasions it has been known for a false killer whale
to mate with a bottlenose dolphin giving rise to a new species called
the Wholphin.Of the oceanic dolphins, the pseudo orcas are regarded to be
the third largest in size.
Killer
whales, both “true” and “false”, are the only recognized cetaceans that
actively hunt other marine mammals. But unlike the true killer whale,
the false killer whale rarely attacks mammalian prey preferring to feed
primarily on tuna, ono, mahimahi, swordfish and marine birds. In fact
there have been intermittent observations of true orca preying on false
killer whales.
Communication and Social Habits
Despite
being a species that is widely distributed throughout tropical and
temperate regions across the world, very little is known about the
pseudo orca in comparison to other dolphin species. Information
regarding this species has mostly been accumulated from observations of
stranded dolphins in and around coastlines worldwide.
False
killer whales are recognized as social and playful creatures. They tend
to live and travel in large aggregations that extend to several miles.
This also increases their success in hunting prey. Communication
involves high pitched clicks and whistles. Like other dolphin species,
echolocation is used to help navigate dark waters and locate prey or
other members in their pod. Pseudo orcas have also been observed to
share food and support one another in case of injuries.
Precautions
Friendly
and curious by nature, false killer whales do not hesitate to approach
people. In fact, on occasion they have been known to offer fish to
humans, snorkeling,sailing or scuba diving. Nevertheless
it is advised that people stay cautious and keep a distance from pseudo
orcas in the wild. The safest way to observe these majestic sea
creatures is by hiring a private charter to take you to areas most
frequented by dolphins and whales.
Multiple
populations of dolphins and whales have been regularly documented
within Hawaiian waters by marine biologists. These cetaceans either
reside in the temperate waters of Hawaii or are temporarily visiting
while they journey around the globe. However, it must be remembered that
sighting false killer whales cannot be guaranteed a hundred percent
even in the pleasant clear waters of Hawaii.
