Drone shows life and death of killer whales

Brad Lendon, CNN

Updated 0133 GMT (0933 HKT) October 20, 2014

In an exhibit of playful behavior, two killer whales nuzzle head-to-head.
Photos: Killer whales from above
Killer whales from above – In an exhibit of playful behavior, two killer whales nuzzle head-to-head.
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Killer whales travel in their family group for most of their lives. This family group includes a 2-year-old calf, second from top, and a young-of-the-year, middle.
Photos: Killer whales from above
Killer whales from above – Killer whales travel in their family group for most of their lives. This family group includes a 2-year-old calf, second from top, and a young-of-the-year, middle.
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Two northern resident killer whales were photographed by a remote-controlled hexacopter from 100 feet. The whale on the left is in very poor condition and is thought to have recently perished. The whale on the right is healthy and in the prime of his life. Scientists are using the hexacopter as a cost-effective and non-intrusive method for monitoring the health of killer whales.
Photos: Killer whales from above
Killer whales from above – Two northern resident killer whales were photographed by a remote-controlled hexacopter from 100 feet. The whale on the left is in very poor condition and is thought to have recently perished. The whale on the right is healthy and in the prime of his life. Scientists are using the hexacopter as a cost-effective and non-intrusive method for monitoring the health of killer whales.
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A group of northern resident killer whales, photographed by an unmanned aerial vehicle from 100 feet.<br />
Photos: Killer whales from above
Killer whales from above – A group of northern resident killer whales, photographed by an unmanned aerial vehicle from 100 feet.
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This photo offers an interesting study in comparative body condition of killer whales. The female at top appears skinny and in poor condition. The female in the middle appears healthy and well-nourished. The whale at bottom is pregnant, her body bulging aft of the rib cage.
Photos: Killer whales from above
Killer whales from above – This photo offers an interesting study in comparative body condition of killer whales. The female at top appears skinny and in poor condition. The female in the middle appears healthy and well-nourished. The whale at bottom is pregnant, her body bulging aft of the rib cage.
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A group of northern resident killer whales, photographed by an unmanned aerial vehicle from 100 feet.