Investigation Underway After Endangered Iberian Orca Found with Suspected Gunshot Wounds

Spanish authorities have launched an investigation after one of the oldest and best-known Iberian orcas was found with injuries believed to be consistent with shotgun pellet wounds.

Toñi, also known as “La Abuela” (the Grandmother), is around 60 years old and is the oldest known member of the small Iberian orca population. She was recently photographed in the Strait of Gibraltar with a series of marks on her dorsal fin and back that were not present in photographs taken just a few weeks earlier.

Conservation organisations WeWhale and Iberian Orca Guardians raised the alarm after documenting the injuries. Their assessment is that the pattern of wounds is consistent with the impact of a shotgun blast, although the exact cause of the injuries remains under investigation.

Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition has opened preliminary proceedings to establish what happened and, if possible, identify those responsible. Environment Minister Sara Aagesen said the marks were consistent with pellet shots and stressed that the Iberian orca population is protected.

The Iberian orca population, which moves between the Strait of Gibraltar and the Gulf of Cádiz, numbers fewer than 40 animals and is classified as critically endangered. The group has attracted international attention in recent years because of repeated interactions with boats in the region.

There is currently no confirmed link between Toñi’s injuries and any particular incident involving a vessel or individual, and no suspect has been publicly identified.

Source: The Guardian