Orcas Accused of Ramming Boats Likely Engaging in Playful Behavior, Scientists Say
Experts caution against the mischaracterization of orcas that have been observed colliding with boats, asserting that the animals are not intentionally “attacking” vessels but are likely engaging in playful activities. The prevalence of this misleading narrative poses a threat of retaliation from humans against these creatures.
The incidents involving Iberian orcas initiating collisions with boats along the Spanish and Portuguese coast since July 2020 have prompted concerns. Approximately 11 juveniles and four adult females are believed to be involved in these interactions. Some boats display tooth marks, while others bear evidence of being struck by the head or body of a whale multiple times, leading to the boats being towed to port. Notably, at least five boats have sunk due to resulting damage since spring 2021.
Over 30 marine scientists worldwide have united in an open letter to clarify that the behaviors displayed by these orcas encompass a spectrum of actions, many of which are indicative of “playful social behavior.” Categorizing these behaviors as “attacks” is cautioned against. One hypothesis suggests that the conduct might mirror a cultural trend, analogous to how fashion trends cycle in human societies.
The letter stresses the importance of refraining from imposing human narratives onto these animals. It advocates against presumptions about the motivations behind their actions in the absence of substantial evidence, emphasizing that wildlife should not face consequences for exhibiting unconventional behaviors.
The scientists express concerns that this narrative could jeopardize the safety of orcas, paralleling the way the movie Jaws triggered unwarranted fear of great white sharks. A recent incident emerged in which a sailor reportedly opened fire on a pod of orcas.
Iberian orcas are critically endangered, with potentially fewer than 40 individuals in their population. As a genetically distinct subpopulation, they primarily prey on bluefin tuna.
The letter concludes with a call to approach wild animals’ novel behaviors with restraint and emphasizes the need to adapt human actions in the presence of wildlife. The recent behavior of Iberian orcas, unprecedented even in the era of industrial whaling, is a significant departure from their historical interactions with boats.
Orcas, also known as killer whales, are highly intelligent and socially intricate members of the dolphin family. They exhibit matriarchal social structures, led by the oldest female, and male offspring trace their lineage to the matriarch. Each population of killer whales develops its own culture and hunting techniques.
Although instances of wild orcas harming humans are rare, the recent behavior of Iberian orcas raises questions due to its novelty. The scientists urge a measured response to these events, stressing the importance of respecting the natural behaviors of marine life and adapting human actions accordingly.
Danny Groves of Whale and Dolphin Conservation adds that these incidents should serve as a reminder of the complex nature of orcas. While they have never been known to harm humans in the wild, cases of harm in captivity are linked to the stressors of confinement for human entertainment.