Females breed every 3 to 10 years. Breeding can occur at any time of the year, most often in the summer.

Do killer whales mate with family?

Unlike many other wildlife species, southern-resident killer whales don't leave their families as they mature to find mates and new territory. They stick together for life — and even breed with family members, scientists have discovered.

What time of year do killer whales have babies?

The birth of a new baby whale, known as a calf, usually occurs during the birth season for that specific type of whale. Orcas, for example, tend to give birth in the spring or fall, while blue and humpback whales do so in the winter.