Are Orcas Smart Enough to Plot Against Humans?

A series of seemingly coordinated attacks against fishing vessels has the public paying attention to orcas. Here’s what you need to know about this remarkable species.

Starting in 2020, and intensifying throughout 2023, orcas have unleashed what appear to be coordinated attacks on fishing vessels off the coast of the Iberian Peninsula, and even as far north as Scotland. Scientists believe the rise of attacks indicate the killer whales are teaching each other methods of provoking humans and boats. Are these intelligent animals really “orcanizing” in a form of rebellion against the fishing industry? While no one is certain why this is happening, we do know that orcas are one of the most intelligent species on Earth, capable of problem-solving, communicating…

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