Investigation Launched After Orca Shot in Strait of Gibraltar

Spanish authorities have initiated an investigation following the discovery of an orca, known as Toñi, with suspected pellet gun wounds in the Strait of Gibraltar. Toñi, the oldest living orca in the region and matriarch of the Gulf of Cadiz population, was reported injured on August 11 by the conservation group WeWhale.

The shooting is believed to be a response to a series of orca attacks on boats, which have increased since 2020, resulting in significant property damage. While some attribute these attacks to revenge for vessel strikes, others suggest they may be playful behavior.

Researcher Ignacio Peinó González expressed optimism about Toñi's recovery, citing her strong immune system. He emphasized that violence against orcas is not a solution and warned that retaliatory actions could escalate the conflict further, as orcas like Toñi retain memories of human interactions.