One of world’s oldest orca whales found with possible shotgun wounds as officials launch investigation

Spanish authorities are investigating mysterious wounds found on Toñi, an approximately 60-year-old Iberian orca, the oldest known of her kind. Conservation groups WeWhale and Iberian Orca Guardians believe the multiple fresh marks on her dorsal fin and back are consistent with shotgun pellets, noting the injuries were not present weeks prior. The Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) opened investigative proceedings after being informed of the injuries on August 11th. While officials have not definitively concluded Toñi was shot, the groups emphasize the severity of the wounds, which could lead to infection or other complications for the vulnerable orca. The investigation occurs amidst ongoing interactions between Iberian orcas and boats in the region, with Spanish law carrying significant penalties for harming protected species.

Spanish officials are investigating after Toñi, the matriarch of an Iberian orca pod known for interacting with boats, was found with wounds consistent with pellet gunshots. The markings were observed on her dorsal fin in the Strait of Gibraltar, with some projectiles reportedly lodged in the fin, posing an infection risk. The orca pod has gained attention for damaging vessels, though scientists suggest this behavior may be play or hunting practice rather than aggression. Conservationists have expressed distress over the potential deliberate attack, emphasizing the critically endangered status of the Iberian orca population, which faces numerous threats including food scarcity and pollution. They assert that shooting these animals is an unacceptable response to their interactions with boats.