Orcas seen hunting just metres off shore at John O’Groats
Killer whale fans were treated to the rare experience of witnessing a live hunting attempt just metres from the Caithness shore.
The drama unfolded at John O’Groats where crowds had gathered for the closing weekend of this year’s Orca Watch.
On Saturday, the #27s pod had already been seen close to shore after an initial sighting in Brough Bay. A single male and two females travelled along the coastline towards John O’Groats.
Claudia Afeltra from Sea Watch Foundation explained: “As the orcas rounded St John’s Point and became visible from Gills Bay, excitement grew significantly as the animals approached the shore at an unusually close distance.
“This proximity provided a unique viewing opportunity for observers. The pod continued towards John O’Groats at a sustained pace, with some attendees attempting to follow for a second glimpse.
“The most dramatic event, however, unfolded later in the day. Upon returning into view, the orcas were observed actively swimming closer to the shoreline.
“At a distance of mere meters, thrashing and movement were evident at the water's surface. Observers then realized they were witnessing a live orca hunting attempt.”
Claudia explained that orcas in Scottish waters are known to use three strategies for hunting grey seals – herding, where the orcas work together to herd seals towards the shore; pinching, where two orcas position themselves either side of the seal, forcing it to flee towards the rest of the pod; and tail slapping, where they use their huge tails to stun or injure a seal.
She added that on this occasion the seal managed to evade the orcas.
The orcas were individually identified using photo-identification in reference to the well-established Scottish Orca Identification Catalogue. The leading member, a large bull, was identified as #72, accompanied by two females, #73 and #153.
“The close encounter and observed hunting attempt at Orca Watch 2024 highlight the exceptional predatory capabilities and agility of these apex predators,” Claudia said. “This event also underscores the importance of responsible wildlife observation practices that maintain a safe distance for both humans and animals.”