ACS Monterey Bay Program for May 2005

Orcas of New Zealand

	Thursday, May 26, 2005 7:30 p.m. Program Lecture Hall, Monterey Boatworks, Hopkins Marine Station, Pacific Grove (across from American Tin Cannery Outlet Stores) Please note: No refreshments this month, due to Hopkins' use of the side room
Killer whale photo © Nancy Black	Speaker: Sarah Graham, Monterey Bay Whale Watch

Orcas (Killer whales) are found in ocean waters world wide, with the greatest abundance in the cooler waters of the higher latitudes. New Zealand is a major location for this species in the Southern Hemisphere. Three forms occur there, including animals from Antarctic waters, and they have distinct vocalizations.

Unlike our local orcas, prey preferences are for elasmobranchs (sharks, skates and rays). However, a few dolphins are sometimes taken (including Dusky and Hector's). Pinnipeds, while abundant, appear to be ignored.

Our speaker will also discuss pod size and their movements -- and the occurrence of mass strandings.

Sarah worked closely with New Zealand orca specialist Dr. Ingrid Visser in 2002/2003.

Related web pages:

• Orca Research - Research project dedicated to orca in the South Pacific. Founded by Dr. Ingrid Visser.

• Back to list of previous meetings.