Orcas ‘play games’ with British yachts as officers verify to spate of assaults
Orcas are reportedly enjoying video games with British yachts which cross them in response to an skilled investigating the phenomenon.
In current weeks, the killer whales have been answerable for a collection of assaults on ships off the coast of Spain. According to marine biologist Renaud de Stephanis, the animals have been pursuing a “massive adrenaline rush” and dismissed theories they have been in search of revenge for accidents to their calves.
Mr de Stephanis dismissed the vigilante orcas concept and advised El Mundo: “We think it is just a game for them.” His feedback got here as Spanish authorities search to take motion to cease the current spate of assaults on crews.
Mr de Stephanis added: “If two or three killer whales really attacked a yacht, they would sink it in a matter of seconds.
“It might feel like an attack to us humans but, without wanting to be too dismissive, a furious attack by this animal could have much worse consequences for a boat and for whoever is onboard than a mere feeling of fear for a few minutes.”
Scores of orcas have been attacking vessels off the coast of the Iberian peninsular since 2020.
The most up-to-date assault befell on Monday when a pod of killer whales allegedly bumped into the facet of a ship carrying two individuals within the strait of Gibraltar, forcing the pair to be rescued by the Spanish coastguard.
Just days earlier than the newest assault two yachts collaborating in The Ocean Race had encounters with orcas. One crew endured a 20-minute assault as three orcas slammed into their hull earlier than swimming away.
CIRCE researchers have recognized one juvenile orca within the pod who seems to be the driving power behind the behaviour.
Mr de Stephanis mentioned the animal had repeatedly initiated encounters with the boats and drawn in different younger orcas to the motion.
Closer inspection of the animal has led researchers to note a scar behind its dorsal fin which they are saying it acquired in 2017 when it obtained too near a ship’s propeller.
Mr de Stephanis famous that he had no concept why the orcas had began behaving this fashion in recent times. He mentioned: “Don’t ask me how they started it because I don’t know, and I don’t think anyone ever will.”
As the assaults proceed, Spanish authorities are attempting to work out the best way to cease the aggressive interceptions. One potential plan of action being thought-about is to cease boats from travelling by way of the realm of water the place the orcas are working.
Speaking to the press, authorities sub-delegate Jose Pacheco mentioned the Ministry of Transport’s Maritime Harbour Master’s Office “is working” to make clear whether or not, “as has happened in previous summers, these are one-off events or whether they seem to be on the rise” and “whether they are random or real attacks”.
Mr Pacheco added: “If the Maritime Harbour Master’s Office deems it appropriate, it will start with some measures, as happened in previous summers, to limit certain areas in which navigation was prohibited because it is an area where killer whales pass through.”