These whales off the coast of Alabama like to socialize, communicate: ‘They’re big bats’
These whales may have "false" in their name, but they're not lying about anything. That we know of.
Mason Reed 
Despite their somewhat ominous name, false killer whales are not killers, nor are they technically whales at all. These marine mammals represent a fascinating study in biology and social behavior deep within the Gulf of Mexico.
A Powerful Presence in the Gulf
"They’re all muscle, all speed and strength," says Mackenzie Russell, a researcher with the marine mammal research program at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. Found well beyond the Outer Continental Shelf—often more than 75 miles from Alabama’s coastline—these creatures can reach lengths of nearly 20 feet. They sport a dark gray coat, a small face, and a distinct, elongated forehead.
While they don't share the visual profile of an orca, they are actually close relatives. According to the International Whaling Commission, these animals earned their misleading name because their internal skull structure is remarkably similar to that of an orca. Both species belong to the dolphin family.
Social Complexity and Underwater Echolocation
False killer whales are highly social, typically traveling in pods that can include up to 100 members under the guidance of specific leaders. This tight-knit structure, however, can lead to tragic consequences. Russell notes that if a lead whale becomes injured or ill and strands itself, the rest of the pod often follows. This behavior was observed in 2017 when 95 false killer whales stranded themselves at Hog Key in the Florida Everglades. "The social nature of dolphins is vast and complicated, just like ours is," Russell said.
When hunting for squid and deep-water fish, these whales rely on sophisticated echolocation. They utilize a specialized forehead organ known as a “melon,” a large, fat-filled structure used to emit sound waves. By adjusting muscles within the melon, they can direct sound and tune it with incredible precision. "Essentially they’re big bats, swimming out there," Russell explained.
Respecting the Wild
Because they are marine mammals, these animals are strictly protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which prohibits hunting or harming them. While sightings are rare, 205focus.com readers who happen to encounter them far offshore should exercise extreme caution.
Russell advises keeping at least 150 feet of distance, never offering food, and staying out of the water. "Treat them the same way you would a bison in Yellowstone [National Park]," she said. "They are wild animals, and respect that you’re in their natural habitat."
