Investigation into injuries of Iberian orca

Conservation organizations WeWhale and the Iberian Orca Guardians reported potential gunshot wounds on an Iberian orca named ‘Toñi’. The animal, estimated to be 60 years old, is considered the oldest known member of this endangered population. Observers noted a pattern of holes in the dorsal fin that led to suspicions of shotgun fire.

Following these reports, Spain’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (Miteco) launched a formal investigation into the injuries, which were spotted in the waters of the Strait of Gibraltar. The marks on the whale’s dorsal fin and back are reportedly consistent with shotgun pellet impacts.

The investigation is being led by the Ministry’s General Directorate of Biodiversity, Forests, and Desertification. Under Spanish law, harming these vulnerable animals can result in criminal liability and fines of up to 2 million euros. The incident occurs amidst ongoing tensions between orcas and sailors along the Iberian Atlantic coast, where whales have been observed targeting vessel rudders.