Iberian Orca Toñi Found With Gunshot Wounds: Investigation Launched 2026

The Iberian orca Toñi, the oldest known individual in her population, has been discovered with ten gunshot wounds in her dorsal fin, sparking an official investigation by Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition (Miteco). The 60-year-old matriarch was found on August 10 swimming with two companions between Tarifa and Tangier after a two-year absence.

The discovery has alarmed conservationists and raised concerns about illegal hunting and human-wildlife conflict in the Strait of Gibraltar.

Who Is Toñi, the Iberian Orca Matriarch?

Toñi, often called “the grandmother,” is the oldest known Iberian orca, estimated to be around 60 years old. She leads one of the groups popularly known as “Gladis,” a subpopulation of orcas that frequents the waters off Spain and Morocco.

After not being seen for two years, her reappearance on August 10 brought joy to researchers—but that joy was short-lived. Scientists noticed unusual marks on her dorsal fin and back that had never been documented before.

What Happened to Toñi? The Gunshot Wounds

The conservation organization WeWhale raised the alarm after examining photographs of Toñi. According to Janek Andre, founder of WeWhale and Iberian Orca Guardians, the wounds appear to be from lead pellets about 9 millimeters in diameter—typical ammunition for wild boar hunting, which disperses in three rows of three projectiles.

At least ten wounds were visible on her dorsal fin. The exact circumstances of how she sustained these injuries remain unknown, but the pattern suggests she was shot at close range.

Official Investigation and Legal Response

Miteco was informed on the afternoon of Tuesday, August 11. The next day, the General Directorate of Biodiversity, Forests and Desertification opened preliminary investigation proceedings—a step prior to any sanctioning file, which would only be activated if it is determined precisely what happened and who might be responsible.

Authorities are now investigating among dozens of vessels that operate in the area. The search for the culprit is ongoing, and if found, the perpetrator could face severe penalties under Spanish and EU law, as the Iberian orca is a protected species.

Why This Matters: Conservation Status of Iberian Orcas

The Iberian orca population is critically endangered, with only a few dozen individuals remaining. Each loss or injury to a reproductive female like Toñi has significant implications for the population’s survival.

This incident highlights the ongoing conflict between human activities—such as fishing and maritime traffic—and marine wildlife in the Strait of Gibraltar. It also underscores the need for stricter enforcement of protections and greater awareness among seafarers.

Key Takeaways

• Toñi, the oldest known Iberian orca, was found with ten gunshot wounds in her dorsal fin.
• The wounds appear to be from 9mm lead pellets, typically used for wild boar hunting.
• Spanish authorities have opened a preliminary investigation and are searching for the culprit among dozens of vessels.
• The Iberian orca is critically endangered, making this incident particularly grave for the population.
• Conservation groups are calling for increased monitoring and enforcement to protect these animals.

Comparison of Orca Populations and Threats

What to Watch Next

The investigation into Toñi’s shooting is ongoing, and authorities are appealing for information from the public. The outcome will set a precedent for how such crimes are handled in Spain. The background to this story is set out in Iberian Orca with Suspected Gunshot Wounds Sparks Investigation. A related thread runs through Sydney Shooting: 11-Year-Old Boy Dies After Gunshot Wounds.

Meanwhile, Toñi’s condition remains uncertain. Researchers will continue to monitor her and her group to assess her health and the impact of her injuries. Earlier coverage in Cantabrian Brown Bear Expands Across Northwest Iberia Despite Debate shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in 2,400-Year-Old Iberian Head Found in Lezuza May Reveal Lost Necropolis.

This case has drawn international attention to the plight of the Iberian orca. For a deeper look at how celebrity involvement can influence conservation, see our coverage of the Iberian orca found with gunshot wounds sparks investigation. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Sydney Shooting: Boy, 11, Critical After Gunshot Wounds to Face. The same theme surfaces in Trending: latest articles, which takes a different angle.

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