Group of Orca Whales Spotted in Banderas Bay Team Angels/Rodrigo Lopez Becerril - Vallarta Opina
go to original January 16, 2016

The sighting of a group of Orca Whales has been reported in Banderas Bay on the stretch between Los Arcos de Mismaloya and Los Muertos Beach. The group is said to consist of two females, one male and the baby Orcas.

Marine biologist Maria Eugenia Rodriguez Vazquez of the Wildlife Connection Association, AC, said the presence of these whales has been reported in previous years, with records showing their presence in 1992, 1997, 2000, 2013, 2015 and this year.

Different people have shared pictures of the group of Orcas in their social network accounts, some were concerned that the "killer whales" could attack the large number of Humpback Whales that are here for the season.

While it is a myth to be considered "killer" biologists say that as any species could defend their young in the event that any person or vessel becomes too close. "There is no reports of attacks on people, however, we can not rule out action of these animals to protect their young," she said.

The expert described their normal food to be fish, turtle, manta ray, dolphin and Humpback Whale calves, because unlike them, they do not feed on plankton.

It is estimated that the larger Orca is about nine meters and has a dorsal fin that could measure more than two meters.

For several days, the Orcas were reported crossing the stretch of the bay between Arcos de Mismaloya and Los Muertos Beach without incident for the swimmers but instead they put on a show that was seen and enjoyed by many observers.

Researcher of the University Center of the Coast, Amilcar Cupul Magana, recommended that people avoid swimming near these mammals. Vessels should not cross or approach or harass them, especially since there are two females with calves.

The male accompanying two females and breeding was described as youthful by the biologist, who said they have been in the area for about a week and "have drawn the attention of locals, tourist and authorities in Vallarta."

If you notice the presence of the Orcas in your snorkeling or swimming area, the safest option would be to return to the boat or the beach. In the case of jetskis and kayaks, it is strictly forbidden to follow and harass them.

Translated and edited by Team Angels