Photo: 
Unique Quality Products
Playful Behavior or Deeper Motivations? Decoding Orcas' Interactions with Sailing Ships
Matthew Russell
A June 2022 study published in the journal Marine Mammal Science found that the orcas of the Strait of Gibraltar, the bustling gateway connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, have intensified their encounters with sailing vessels. The frequency of these interactions has reached alarming levels, leaving us to grapple with the unsettling question of what drives these awe-inspiring creatures to engage in such unnerving behavior.
However, a closer examination of the behavior and motivations of these majestic marine mammals reveals a more complex and nuanced picture.
Photo: PexelsOrcas, also known as killer whales, have been engaging in interactions with yachts along Europe's Iberian coast.
The Stealthy Tactics of the Orcas
Delivery skipper Dan Kriz, who experienced multiple encounters with orcas, described a change in their approach. During his most recent encounter in April, the orcas exhibited a more stealthy behavior, devoid of their usual communication squeaks.
"Looks like they knew exactly what they are doing. They didn't touch anything else," he told Newsweek.
These encounters have left sailors and scientists intrigued and searching for explanations.
Photo: PexelsSome incidents involving orcas and boats have been labeled as "attacks."
Playful Behavior or Something Else?
Many scientists who study orca behavior argue that the incidents involving boats are not deliberate attacks but rather playful behavior. Renaud de Stephanis, president and coordinator at CIRCE Conservación Information and Research, suggests that orcas may be attracted to the feel of a boat's rudder.
"What we think is that they're asking to have the propeller in the face," de Stephanis told NPR. "So, when they encounter a sailboat that isn't running its engine, they get kind of frustrated and that's why they break the rudder."
Photo: PexelsA June 2022 study published in Marine Mammal Science found an increase in the frequency of orcas' encounters with sailing vessels in the Strait of Gibraltar.
Trauma and Revenge as Possible Motivations
The recent increase in interactions between ships and orcas off the Iberian coast has led researchers to explore the possibility of past trauma as a motivator for the orcas' behavior.
Alfredo López Fernandez, a biologist at the University of Aveiro in Portugal and a representative of the Atlantic Orca Working Group, suggests that a female orca named White Gladis, who leads the group of around 40 animals, may have had a traumatizing encounter with a boat or a fishing net. Researchers theorize that she is now teaching her pod-mates revenge attacks as a response to her trauma.
"The orcas are doing this on purpose, of course, we don't know the origin or the motivation, but defensive behavior based on trauma, as the origin of all this, gains more strength for us every day," López Fernandez told Live Science.
Other experts are cautious about fully embracing the "revenge" hypothesis. There are no other examples of orcas exhibiting revenge-like behavior, even after humans have provided ample opportunities for such responses.
Photo: PexelsMany scientists believe these incidents are not deliberate attacks but rather playful behavior by orcas.
Unique Behavior in Specific Regions
Deborah Giles, the science and research director at Wild Orca, a conservation group based in Washington state, remains skeptical of the revenge hypothesis. She points out that killer whale populations in Washington waters, which were historically targeted for aquariums, did not exhibit aggressive behavior towards boats after experiencing trauma in the form of seal bombs and helicopter maneuvers.
"The pod never attacked boats after that," she told NPR. "It just doesn't ring true to me."
Photo: PexelsTrauma and revenge have been proposed as possible motivations for the orcas' behavior.
Further, the behavior observed off the Iberian coast does not appear to be spreading to other populations of orcas.
Monika Wieland Shields, director of the Orca Behavior Institute, said that while the situation remains ongoing in the specific region, there is currently no reason to believe it will affect orcas in other areas.
"We've had folks here in Washington [asking] 'is it safe to go out in the water here with these orcas?'" Shields said. "While this is kind of an ongoing situation in that specific place, I don't think there's any reason to think it's going to start spreading to other populations of orcas."
Photo: PexelsKiller whale populations in Washington state did not exhibit aggressive behavior towards boats after experiencing trauma.
Preserving the Safety of Orcas and Humans
As scientists continue to study and understand the behavior of orcas off the Iberian coast, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of both these magnificent marine mammals and humans. Recognizing that the motives behind the orcas' actions are still under investigation, it is essential to approach encounters with caution and respect.
Boaters and sailors should remain informed about local guidelines and regulations regarding interactions with marine wildlife. Understanding and adhering to these guidelines can help minimize potential risks and ensure the well-being of both orcas and humans.
The incidents off the Iberian coast serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and the natural world. By fostering a greater appreciation for these extraordinary creatures and their habitats, we can contribute to their continued protection and conservation.
In the U.S., ship strikes are a leading cause of whale deaths on both the East and West coasts, according to the Center for Biological Diversity. These deaths can be reduced through mandatory speed limits through whale habitat, including the coastal areas as ships approach California ports.
Help us ask NOAA to take action for whales and implement these speed limits in coastal whale habitat!
Click below to make a difference.