Orca Hotspots: A Guide to Australia's Killer Whale Habitats

Australia's waters are home to fascinating killer whale populations, and recent research is helping us understand more about these apex predators. A study published in *Ecology and Evolution* has mapped the distribution of orcas across Australia, identifying key regions where these animals are most frequently sighted. The Bonney Upwelling, the Bremer Sub-basin, and Ningaloo Reef have been pinpointed as high-priority zones for killer whales. This research, led by Flinders University's CEBEL, analyzed over 1,300 verified orca sightings. The findings give us the first nationwide picture of orca distribution in Australian waters. The study also supports the idea that at least two ecologically distinct forms of killer whales exist in Australia – a temperate and a tropical form. These findings are crucial for conservation efforts, as they highlight the need for targeted measures to protect the unique challenges faced by each population. For those interested in seeing these magnificent creatures, Bremer Bay is a prime spot for orca sightings, with a diverse diet including squid, fish, and smaller marine mammals.