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An Orca Breaches the Water in British Columbia The orca, or “killer whale” is a toothed whale. It is the largest member of the dolphin family. A full breach (aka a “big splash”) is when more than two thirds of a whale’s body leaves the water. It’s believed that orcas breach for one of three reasons. The first is communication. The noise created from the huge body hitting the water could help alert other whales. The second is to shake parasites from their skin. And the third is for fun. Orcas and other species of whales and dolphins are known for their playful behavior. It could be that they just put on a beautiful show for fun. THOMAS LIPKE kenmoreair.com 15