The researchers compared the genomes of killer whales, walruses and manatees with those of dogs, cows and elephants. ... The findings suggests that walruses and seals share a common ancestor with modern wolves and dogs while orca evolved from a shared ancestor with the more docile cow.

What animal did orcas evolve from?

Orcas evolved from a small deer-like species that roamed the earth more than 50 million years ago. They are among the most formidable animals in the ocean — pack-hunting creatures that feed on everything from salmon to blue whales.

Did orcas descend from wolves?

Killer whales and walruses more closely related to wolves than each other. New research shows the underlying genetics behind how some species came to evolve in a similar fashion.