Orcas have complex social structures including close 'friendships'

Killer whales – also known as orcas – have complex social structures including close'friendships', a new study reveals. Scientists at the University of Exeter used drones to film the animals – one of the world's most powerful predators – in the Pacific Ocean. The team found killer whales (Orcinus orca) spend more time interacting with certain individuals in their pod, and tend to favour those of the same sex and similar age. Results from the new study are based on 651 minutes of video filmed over 10 days. Orcas are the largest member of the dolphin family.