[REVISION HISTORY]

Investigation into injuries of Iberian orca

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What changed

2026-08-15 18:43 UTC → 2026-09-03 10:20 UTC · added ~~removed~~

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 and known as ‘La Abuela’ (the grandmother), is considered the oldest known member of this critically endangered subpopulation, which numbers fewer than 40 individuals. 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. Recent details indicate approximately ten impact marks, which conservationists state are consistent with shotgun pellets, possibly ‘9mm buckshot used for hunting wild boar’. Technical analysis by the Atlantic Orca Working Group suggests these are 9mm lead pellets. There are concerns that some projectiles may remain lodged in the animal’s tissue, posing a risk of infection or sepsis. ~~While~~ As the ~~orca appears~~ investigation has progressed, the Ministry has referred the case to ~~be swimming and hunting normally,~~ the ~~severity~~ Environmental Prosecutor's Office after finding evidence of a crime against protected fauna. Preliminary findings suggest the ~~incident remains~~ shots were likely fired from a ~~high priority for researchers.~~ Spanish-flagged vessel while it was located in Portuguese waters. The ~~investigation~~ Guardia Civil is ~~being led by~~ currently working to identify the ~~Ministry’s General Directorate of Biodiversity, Forests,~~ perpetrators and ~~Desertification. Deputy Prime Minister Sara Aagesen stated that harming this vulnerable species is a serious crime.~~ verify the vessel's documentation and weapons permits. Spanish officials continue to coordinate with Portuguese authorities to address the international aspects of the incident. Under Spanish law, harming these vulnerable animals can result in criminal liability and fines of up to 2 million euros. Authorities are also coordinating with Portuguese officials, as the injuries may have occurred in Portuguese waters near Faro. The incident occurs amidst ongoing tensions between orcas and sailors along the Iberian Atlantic coast, where whales have been observed targeting vessel rudders.

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