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RARE SIGHTING

Orca

Orcinus orca

Transient "Bigg's" orcas occasionally pass through SoCal hunting common dolphins. Sightings are rare but unforgettable.

Stats

At a glance

LENGTH
20–26 ft
WEIGHT
6–10 tons
LIFESPAN
50–80 yrs
DIET
Marine mammals (transients)
RARITY
Very rare — celebrate
SEASON
Sporadic
How to ID

What to look for

Black & white, tall dorsal fin. Transient pods follow dolphins.
BEHAVIORS TO WATCH FOR
Coordinated pod huntingTall dorsal fin (males 6 ft)Spy-hopping
When

Best months to see

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Archive

Last 30 days

Total seen
1
Days active
1/30
Last seen
Apr 14
DAILY SIGHTING COUNT HOVER A BAR
TODAY
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Operators that often spot this species

NW
Newport Whales
NEWPORT BEACH · NEXT 11:00 AM
Visit →
DL
Davey's Locker
NEWPORT BEACH · NEXT 12:30 PM
Visit →
DW
Dana Wharf
DANA POINT · NEXT 10:00 AM
Visit →
HB
Harbor Breeze
LONG BEACH · NEXT 12:00 PM
Visit →
FC
Flagship Cruises
SAN DIEGO · NEXT 1:30 PM
Visit →