Transient or Resident Orca 1 of 2

resident orcaBased on differences in their lifestyles and food preferences, orcas are characterised as “resident” and “transient”. The majority of orcas that visit our area area are called “residents” because their appearance in the area each summer and fall is relatively predictable. They feed on salmon, live in close and extended family groups (matrilines and pods) and are highly social. Families can be distinguished from one another by their dialects.