A large killer whale was observed cruising off the coast of Montauk, New York, this week, an event that could represent the first such sighting off Long Island in decades. The whale, distinguished by its approximately 7-foot dorsal fin and exhalation spout, was spotted approximately 10 nautical miles offshore.
Dr. Craig O'Connell of the O'Seas Conservation Foundation, who witnessed the sighting while participating in a shark tagging program with high school students, described the animal as an "impressive" and "enormous alpha male orca." He noted that the experience was a rare and surprising event, comparing it to "winning the lottery."
Researchers speculate the whale might be "Old Thom," a well-known orca that frequents the waters off Cape Cod and the Gulf of Maine. This identification is based in part on the whale being observed alone, rather than with a pod of orcas, a behavior associated with Old Thom. Killer whales are known predators of sharks, and their presence can deter other marine life, including sharks.
O'Connell, who has worked in the area for 13 years and spends significant time at sea, stated he had never encountered such a sighting before. The last documented orca sighting near Long Island was reportedly in 1986. Historical accounts also mention a killer whale sinking a fishing boat off the coast in 1958 after an altercation.
The return of killer whales to the Long Island area is likely linked to prey availability. O'Connell noted the presence of bluefin tuna, smaller marine mammals, and sharks in the vicinity, all of which can serve as food sources for orcas. While killer whales are found globally, their appearance off Montauk is considered unusual, though not impossible.
Federal guidelines recommend maintaining a distance of at least 100 yards from whales. Boat operators are advised to put their engines in neutral when near these animals, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.