Killer whales (Orcinus orca) possess exceptionally powerful jaws and can generate incredibly high bite forces. Estimates place their bite force between approximately 19,000 and 22,000 pounds per square inch (psi). For comparison, a great white shark's bite force is around 4,000 psi, while humans average about 200 psi.
Killer whales have large, conical teeth designed for grasping, tearing, and crushing prey. Adults typically have between 42 and 50 teeth. Their jaw muscles are incredibly strong, allowing them to exert immense pressure when biting.
This tremendous bite pressure helps them subdue a wide variety of prey, including fish, seals, sea lions, penguins, and other marine mammals. Killer whales often hunt cooperatively in pods, using echolocation and coordinated tactics.