Pacific killer whales rely primarily upon salmon runs for food. Male whales can grow to about 8.2 m long and can weigh as much as 5,442 kg. Female whales are usually a little smaller. Compared to other animals, the killer whale's life span is quite long. Females live to around 50 years of age, males 25 years.
Males have tall, long dorsal fins.
Marine biologists use the shape and size of its dorsal fin, the unique saddle markings, scars, and deformities to identify specific whales. Each whale studied is given number and a name. These names reflect the whale's personality and how it was discovered. A pod is an extended family. It usually includes several mother whales and their babies.