A recent incident reported off the northern coast of Spain has reignited concerns about orcas and vessels, and the potential for these interactions to spread further north, which could soon pose a risk to UK sailors.
The Spanish coastguard rescued two sailors from a French yacht after it was reportedly rammed by a group of orcas near Bilbao. Further south, known as “orca alley”, sections of the Strait of Gibraltar have seen various encounters reported over recent years, but this area is considered highly unusual for this activity.
Marine experts are now warning that British water may not be immune. Professor Volker Deecke, a wildlife conservation expert at the University of Cumbria, told The Telegraph that while orca interactions have been limited to specific hotspots, UK sailors should now familiarise themselves with guidance. “The same guidance applies for sailors encountering any killer whales in Cornish waters,” he adds.
His comments follow the confirmed sighting and BBC report, earlier this month, of Iberian orcas in Cornish waters, the first time this specific group has been recorded so far north. Although considered rare, the event has raised questions among conservationists who say awareness is key as migration and behaviors shift.
Dr Javier Almunia, director of the Loro Parque Foundation, told The Telegraph that orca-boat interactions have decreased after new guidelines: “The behaviour has reduced, at least in the Gibraltar Strait, by around 90 per cent following the recommendations of the Spanish authorities.”
Sailors are advised to follow safety protocols, including switching off engines, lowering sails, and turning off echo sounders if orcas are spotted nearby. While scientists continue to debate the cause and theory of these interactions, the message remains to stay informed and follow guidance.
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