Searching for Type D: A New Species of Killer Whale?

In January, 2019, an experienced group of killer whale biologists launched an expedition from the southern tip of Chile into some of the roughest waters in the world, searching for what could be a new species of killer whale.

[utubedano]

In current times where we generally learn about species extinction it's good to hear about new ones...

[utxex]

Is it more appropriate to suggest they're a subspecies, instead of a completely new species?

[MegaBronsky]

This Orca is usually seen in south of Chile, 🇨🇱 close to Antarctica, fishermen of my country always talk about it 🐬

[orcawithdrip]

Can’t wait for the results to come out!

[theldaniel]

It's LATE 2020. I WANT MY ANSWERS!

[sweetshopadmin]

I'm so amazed by this video I've heard very little about the type D killer whales before this. I can't wait to hear their distinct vocalizations! Very good research thanks for sharing

[spelunkerd]

Well done. The new subspecies argument is convincing, but to call this a new species would be a stretch.

[BlackAngel-ijqx]

It differs because of narrow dorsal fins and curve..but I love the type A orcas as they are bulky and their dorsal fins are straight and tall

[ulugbeksaipov]

I think this team of scientists straight candidate for some big yearly scientific prize. Great job.

[Liladelph]

Holy cow, that was risky biscuits; the Orca's said hey we'll give them a bit of DNA for their troubles... They probably won't make it back to land anywho.
Excited for the results of the new *subspecies*

[BigDaddy-hnoh]

Your work will be appreciated by the future Generations

[hollohuman]

I live in NZ I have seen orcas out there fishing just passing through us in the morning i didn't see much just some dorsal find that was about it. And during winter its a massive group of around 15-30 common dolphins and they get so close to the boat I feel like could reach out and touch one :)

[calvarankingofthewest]

Despite the fact that I’m an Orca fan, this is the first time I’ve ever heard of Type D Orcas.

[davelouribooc]

I think they are more like a "race" rather than another species.

[tricknfa]

Why do they always do the video before the lab results come back?

[pamhunter-toxs]

Wouldnt that be a subspecies? As a biologist, im thinking its still a killer whale. Like the subspecies of elephants... are still of the elephant species...

[elainewalls]

The Salish Sea J Pod is almost extinct. Thanks to SeaWorld decimating their numbers, and now virtually no Chinook salmon for them to eat. This "new" species should be protected.

[brussell]

That's really interesting. They definitely do have their own distinctive look. I'm sure they'll have they're own special dialect as well.

[LHMOM.]

you've got to have a death wish to take a sailboat to the southern ocean. i love killer whales, but love life a wee bit more.

[bradgordon]

can't wait for the results of the DNA. thank you for a great video.