Feresa – Pygmy killer whale

Found in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world, this species is actually not a true whale at all but a small oceanic dolphin, closely related to the pilot whales and melon-headed whale. The pygmy killer whale is larger than most dolphins but much smaller than the mighty orca, the “killer whale” it’s named after. Its body is sturdy and torpedo-shaped, with a rounded head and no beak, giving it a more whale-like profile. Its coloration is distinct too: dark gray to black on top with lighter gray sides, a whitish patch on the belly, and pale lips and chin that make it look like it’s always pursing its mouth into a faint smile.

What makes the pygmy killer whale stand out from other dolphins is its rare and secretive lifestyle. Unlike bottlenose dolphins that are often seen near coasts or interacting with boats, pygmy killer whales are deep-water specialists, spending most of their lives far offshore in warm, open seas. They live in tight-knit pods of about 10 to 30 individuals, though sometimes much larger groups are seen. These pods are strongly bonded, with individuals often swimming in close formation. Their behavior has been described as both cautious and aggressive—while they usually avoid boats and humans, they can show bursts of speed and even hostility if disturbed.

Diet-wise, pygmy killer whales are carnivores, feeding mainly on squid and deep-sea fish, which they hunt cooperatively. Their strong jaws and sharp teeth allow them to tackle fairly large prey for their size, and coordinated hunting within their pod makes them efficient predators. Despite their name, they do not attack large whales like orcas do. In fact, the name “killer whale” is misleading—it comes more from their stocky build and darker coloration than from their feeding habits.