False Killer Whale

The false killer whale is a large dark oceanic dolphin occasionally seen in New Zealand. Its name refers to skull similarities with orca. It has a slender body, rounded forehead and elbow-shaped flippers. Adults are usually 4.5–6 metres long.

It favours warm temperate and tropical offshore water. New Zealand records concentrate in northern waters. Strongly bonded groups hunt large fish and squid. Individuals sometimes share captured prey.

The species is Uncommon nationally. Its New Zealand abundance remains poorly known. Rare encounters occur in the Bay of Islands, Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty. There is no dependable site.