Orcas at Ketley Point
Antarctica is a land of breathtaking wilderness and extraordinary wildlife encounters, but few moments rival the thrill of seeing orcas right beneath your zodiac. Spotting Orcas at Ketley Point, we experienced one of the most unforgettable wildlife interactions imaginable as these magnificent marine mammals gracefully swam directly under our boats.
Known for their intelligence and striking black-and-white markings, orcas are apex predators and a symbol of the Antarctic’s untamed beauty. Watching them glide effortlessly beneath the icy waters, close enough to see their every detail, was both humbling and exhilarating.
Ketley Point’s pristine environment offers an incredible opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness orcas in their natural habitat. This encounter reminds us of the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems and respecting the animals that call them home.
Tips for Wildlife Watching in Antarctica:
1. Be Prepared: Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture these moments.
2. Stay Quiet: Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals.
3. Dress Warmly: Antarctic conditions can be harsh, so layer up to stay comfortable.
4. Follow Your Guide’s Instructions: Respecting the wildlife and environment is paramount.
Experiencing orcas this close is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Watch our video to relive this incredible moment and get inspired to explore the wonders of Antarctica yourself!
In Antarctica, there are four distinct ecotypes of orca (Orcinus orca), each with unique characteristics, behaviour, and prey preferences. Unlike separate species, ecotypes are genetically and ecologically distinct groups that do not typically interbreed. Here’s a breakdown of the four Antarctic orca ecotypes:
1. Type A Orcas (Large, Open-Water Hunters)
• Appearance: Large (up to 9.5m), bold black-and-white markings, a large white eye patch
• Habitat: Open ocean, often seen in the Drake Passage and near the Antarctic Peninsula
• Diet: Primarily minke whales, sometimes other marine mammals
• Behaviour: Fast and powerful swimmers; known to chase down large prey
• Interesting Fact: Resemble the “classic” orca most familiar to people worldwide
2. Type B Orcas (Pack Ice Seal Hunters – Large & Small Forms)
Type B orcas are split into two subgroups: large and small, both specialising in hunting seals.
Type B (Large) – Pack Ice Orcas
• Appearance: Medium-sized (6-8m), yellowish hue from diatom (algae) buildup on skin, large eye patch
• Habitat: Ice-covered waters around the Antarctic continent
• Diet: Specialises in Weddell seals, hunting them in coordinated group strategies
• Behaviour: Uses “wave-washing” – creating waves to knock seals off ice floes
Type B (Small) – Gerlache Orcas
• Appearance: Smaller than Type B (Large), similar yellowish hue but with a smaller eye patch
• Habitat: Primarily found in the Gerlache Strait off the Antarctic Peninsula
• Diet: Feeds on penguins (particularly Adélies and gentoos), along with some fish
• Behaviour: Less studied but frequently seen near tourist vessels in the Antarctic Peninsula
3. Type C Orcas (Ross Sea Orcas – Fish Specialists)
• Appearance: The smallest orca ecotype (5-6m), large slanted eye patch, greyish-white body
• Habitat: Ross Sea, in remote and ice-covered waters
• Diet: Specialises in Antarctic toothfish and other deep-sea fish
• Behaviour: Often seen travelling in large pods (30-40 individuals) under the ice
• Interesting Fact: Thought to be the most ice-adapted of all orca types
4. Type D Orcas (Mysterious, Rare Subantarctic Orcas)
• Appearance: Smaller size, very small eye patch, more rounded head, bulbous forehead
• Habitat: Found in subantarctic waters, especially near South Georgia and the southern Indian Ocean
• Diet: Unknown, but believed to eat fish and squid
• Behaviour: Rarely seen, first officially documented in 1955
• Interesting Fact: Thought to be the least studied orca in the world due to its remote range
Antarctica’s orcas are incredibly diverse, with unique hunting strategies and adaptations to life in the icy Southern Ocean. From wave-washing seals off ice floes to chasing down minke whales or diving deep for toothfish, each ecotype has evolved to thrive in its niche.
For more tips and information on Antarctica read our other blogs –
Sustainable Travel in Antarctica
Personal Stories from Antarctica