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Iberian orca known for ramming boats seen with suspected gunshot wounds
Marine conservationist says deliberate attack would be ‘act of extreme cruelty’ against endangered population
TL;DR
- Spanish officials are investigating suspected pellet gun wounds on an orca matriarch named Toñi.
- Toñi is part of a pod known for interacting with boats off the Iberian Peninsula, sometimes causing damage.
- The wounds were observed on her dorsal fin, with some projectiles remaining lodged.
- The orca population is critically endangered, with 30-40 individuals remaining.
- Scientists suggest the orcas' boat interactions may be play or hunting practice, not attacks.
- Conservation groups are concerned about the orca's welfare and the potential for deliberate cruelty.
- The incident follows previous reports of sailors using firecrackers against orcas.