Spain investigates shotgun wounds on orca Toñi

Spanish authorities have opened an investigation after Toñi, the oldest known Iberian orca, was found with multiple fresh wounds on her dorsal fin and back in the Strait of Gibraltar. Conservation groups WeWhale and Iberian Orca Guardians believe the wounds are consistent with shotgun pellet impacts, noting they were not present in photographs taken weeks earlier. The Spain — Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO) was alerted on August 11 and opened preliminary investigative proceedings the next day. WeWhale counted roughly 10 apparent pellet impacts, with some projectiles possibly lodged inside. At an estimated 60 years old, Toñi faces added health risks, though she is currently swimming and hunting normally. Spanish law prohibits harming protected species, with penalties up to 2 million euros and potential criminal liability. The incident occurs amid years of documented interactions between Iberian orcas and vessels since 2020. No suspect has been identified.