Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Plant Sciences, Zoology & Evolution => Topic started by: paul.fr on 20/12/2007 13:19:43

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: paul.fr on 20/12/2007 13:19:43

I recently heard that killer whales (Orca) are actually dolphins! The story goes that dolphins have this great PR team who happily portray dolphins as always smiling human friendly creatures. When the truth is far more sinister.

is this true?

also, why do dolphins always look like they are smiling?

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: Karen W. on 20/12/2007 13:34:25

Because they are smiling!!! [;D] [;)]

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: Karen W. on 20/12/2007 13:44:17

Seriously Are dolphins really aggressive? I always thought them to be gentle when I have seen them...

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: another_someone on 20/12/2007 14:21:00

Orca and dolphins are closely related, but not the same (unless someone has some information I am unaware of).

None the less, dolphins are carnivores, so they are killers in their own right; and they are one of the few animals that can frighten large sharks.

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: Karen W. on 20/12/2007 14:35:15

Quote from: paul.fr on 20/12/2007 13:19:43

I recently heard that killer whales (Orca) are actually dolphins! The story goes that dolphins have this great PR team who happily portray dolphins as always smiling human friendly creatures. When the truth is far more sinister.

is this true?

also, why do dolphins always look like they are smiling?

Nice save Paul.. Thanks I even did it wrong! LOL..

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: paul.fr on 20/12/2007 14:37:31

yes, i saw you correcting my spelling! even though it was correct!

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: Karen W. on 20/12/2007 14:58:12

It wasn't!! You forgot to put a c in it!  I screwed up and put a k instead of what you were supposed to put in! LOL....My dear boy there was no c or k in it when I found it! LOL! It was spelled "ora"!!

Title: Killer whales, are really dolphins
Post by: rosalind dna on 20/12/2007 21:31:53

I have known for a while that Killer Whales are actually part of the Dolphin family and
mammals too.

Yes the reason that Dolphins are aggressive is for food or territorial reasons or to protect
their young. Same goes for Whales as well but they are both carnivores unlike some fish which
are either carnivore, ominvores or herbivores.  [:-\]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killer_whales

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dolphins