Orca

The orca is the largest dolphin, with a strong black-and-white pattern and a pale patch behind each eye. An adult male’s tall, upright dorsal fin differs from the shorter, curved fin of a female. The broad flippers and powerful body are especially evident when an animal turns near the surface.

Some Valdés orcas specialise in taking sea-lion or elephant-seal pups close to the shore, and a few use intentional stranding. This demanding hunting behaviour is learned within family groups. It is an exceptional event to witness, and an orca travelling past the coast may show none of it.

In our region. Orcas can appear outside the best-known seasons. Punta Norte hunting activity is mainly February–May, while spring opportunities around Valdés are associated with October–November. Tide, wind and the animals’ movements matter; neither sightings nor intentional stranding can be promised.