What is the largest species of dolphin? What is the smallest?
Many people are surprised to hear that the largest species of dolphin is the killer whale or orca (Orcinus orca). While the orca is commonly referred to as a “whale”, it is a member of the delphinidae family and is considered a species of dolphin. The name “killer whale” is thought to have originated from native whalers who saw orcas kill whales. Some believe that orcas were originally called “whale killers”, and over the decades the name swapped to “killer whale”. Orcas can grow to 30 feet long and weigh as much as 8 tons. The smallest oceanic dolphin is the Hector’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectorii). They are usually no more than 4 to 5 feet long and weigh between 75 and 150 pounds. These dolphins live around New Zealand and are incredibly endangered.
