These four companion books take a dramatic look at our watery planet. For centuries, killer whales had a fearsome reputation as indiscriminate killers. In recent years we have realized that they are incredibly complex, endearing, and enigmatic creatures and do not deserve their killer name. We do not understand why, but unlike lions, tigers, and polar bears, they seem to be very careful not to harm people. Killer whales are the largest members of the dolphin family. Living in close-knit family groups known as pods, they are unmistakable with their distinctive jet-black and brilliant white markings and the tall, triangular dorsal fins of the males. They are most common in the cooler waters of the polar regions but can be seen almost anywhere. Best known for their supreme hunting abilities, they use their strength and some remarkable cooperative hunting strategies to tackle a wide variety of prey, including squid, fish, sea turtles, seabirds, sea lions, dolphins, and even whales several times larger than themselves. Killer whales are highly vocal animals and make a medley of weird and wonderful calls and whistles to communicate with one another. Killer Whales explores the surprising and awe-inspiring world of these amazing ocean predators, describing their daily lives and habits and examining their prospects for the future.
