Spanish officials have launched an investigation after Toñi, the oldest known Iberian orca, was observed with multiple fresh wounds believed to be from shotgun pellets. The injuries were noted on the orca's dorsal fin and back, according to Spain's Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO).
The ministry was alerted to the injuries on August 11, following information from the marine conservation group WeWhale. Preliminary investigative proceedings began the next day to determine the cause of the wounds and identify any responsible parties.
While authorities have not definitively concluded that Toñi was shot, WeWhale and Iberian Orca Guardians stated that the appearance, number, and distribution of the wounds are consistent with shotgun discharge. The groups observed approximately 10 apparent pellet impacts on the left side of her dorsal fin, with at least two or three projectiles seemingly passing through it. They noted that these wounds were not present on photographs taken just weeks prior.
Toñi, estimated to be around 60 years old, is the oldest member of the critically endangered Iberian orca population. Conservationists warned that the injuries could pose significant risks, as the dorsal fin plays a crucial role in thermoregulation and has a rich blood supply. Potential complications include tissue damage, swelling, infection, and, in severe cases, life-threatening conditions if pellets remain lodged within her body.
Despite the injuries, WeWhale reported that Toñi appears to be swimming and hunting normally, and the group plans to continue monitoring her condition closely.
Janek Andre, founder and president of WeWhale and the Iberian Orca Guardians Foundation, emphasized the severity of the incident, stating that deliberately firing a shotgun at such an animal would be an act of extreme cruelty and an attack on a vital member of an endangered population.
The Iberian orca population in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Gulf of Cádiz is classified as vulnerable. Spanish law prohibits the harming or disturbance of protected species, with potential penalties reaching up to 2 million euros (approximately $2.3 million) and possible criminal liability, according to MITECO.
This investigation occurs amidst a period of increased interactions between Iberian orcas and vessels off the Iberian Peninsula, a phenomenon documented since 2020. Spanish authorities have previously issued guidance to protect both boaters and the cetaceans, advising against the use of deterrent measures that could harm the animals. WeWhale stressed that shooting at the orcas is never an acceptable response to these encounters, regardless of opinions on the interactions themselves.
Conservation groups are maintaining records of their observations and photographs and will continue to monitor Toñi's health as the official investigation progresses. No suspects have been named in connection with the incident.