Why Do Orcas Spare Some Boats but Damage Others? Researchers Track the Pattern

Since 2020, Iberian orcas have repeatedly interacted with sailboats, targeting rudders along the coasts of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Researchers believe this behavior, documented in over 500 instances, spreads through social learning and may stem from curiosity or past negative experiences. Most interactions do not escalate, and humans are not harmed.