Wild Safari Sea Life Type D Orca (Sub-Antarctic Killer Whale)

One of the most mysterious and elusive animals on Earth, the Type D Orca (Sub-Antarctic Killer Whale) was first documented in 1955 from a group of stranded individuals in New Zealand — yet wasn't photographed alive in the wild until 2019. Scientists believe it may represent a unique, geographically isolated population or possibly an entirely new species of killer whale.

What sets this orca apart is its striking appearance: a noticeably rounded, bulbous head and unusually small white eyespots positioned far back behind the eyes — quite different from the large, prominent eyespots seen in other killer whale types. It is found in cold sub-Antarctic waters, primarily south of 40°S latitude, making it one of the least-studied cetaceans in the world.

Safari Ltd's Wild Safari® Sea Life Type D Orca figurine captures these distinctive features in remarkable hand-painted detail, making it a must-have for whale enthusiasts, ocean lovers, and serious collectors alike.

• Scientific Name: Orcinus orca
• Characteristics: Large bulbous melon head, small white eyespots set far back behind the eyes, classic black-and-white orca coloration
• Size: Over 6 inches long, approximately 2.75 inches tall (to dorsal fin tip)
• Collection: Wild Safari® Sea Life
• Non-toxic and BPA free
• Suitable for ages 3 and up