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Research to Protect Iberian Orcas in the Strait and Bay of Cádiz

WeWhale experts launch a study authorized by the Miteco to understand and manage the coexistence of these cetaceans with human activity.

Orcas swimming in the Strait of Gibraltar with a sailboat in the background.
IA

Orcas swimming in the Strait of Gibraltar with a sailboat in the background.

A new investigation authorized by the Ministry for Ecological Transition will take place in the Strait and Bay of Cádiz to protect the Iberian orca, an endangered species.

The association WeWhale, specializing in whale watching, will lead a research project focused on the Iberian orca, one of the most endangered populations globally. This study, authorized by the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (Miteco), will be conducted in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Bay of Cádiz. The primary objective is to better understand the complex behaviors of these animals and foster appropriate coexistence with human activity, particularly following recent "interaction" incidents with boats.
WeWhale experts emphasize that orcas should not be considered aggressive animals. "Orcas should not be understood as aggressive animals, but as a species with complex behaviors whose coexistence with human activity requires knowledge and adequate management," they state. The research will include photo-identification studies, acoustic analysis, and behavioral observation to identify and track the animals, as well as to understand their communication methods.
This project is part of the campaign 'Save the Iberian Orca', which aims to promote coexistence between boaters and orcas through patrols, monitoring, scientific documentation, and public awareness. The initiative also seeks to enhance understanding of the Iberian orca's role within the Strait's ecosystem.
Recent analyses, compiled by a monitoring commission from Miteco and the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, indicate a significant decrease in interactions between boats and orcas in the Gulf of Cádiz and the Strait, contrasting with a slight increase in northern Spain. The orca population in this area is classified as vulnerable in the Spanish Catalogue of Endangered Species (CEEA), and its legal protection prohibits any action causing harm, capture, pursuit, or disturbance to these cetaceans.
Current regulations, such as Royal Decree 1727/2007, establish protection measures for cetaceans, including prohibitions on approaching vessels within 60 meters, feeding the animals, or generating loud noises that could disturb them.

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