"Sailboat harmed by orcas near Peniche Coast"
In a series of unexpected events, the coastal waters off Portugal have witnessed a string of encounters with orcas, the largest member of the dolphin family. Over the past five days, at least three incidents have been reported, the latest occurring off the coast of Peniche and Cascais.
On Monday, at approximately 14:27, the Peniche Lifeboat Station was immediately dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of two vessels in distress. The first incident involved a French-flagged sailboat with five people on board, which was assisted six kilometers from Peniche port. Remarkably, the sailboat did not require medical assistance for its crew.
The second incident occurred at Fonte da Telha, where another vessel was assisted. The sailboat lost its rudder off the coast of Peniche, but details about the crew's safety are yet to be confirmed.
These incidents have raised concerns about the orcas' behaviour towards boats. Scientists believe that their aggressive actions may be due to irritation by certain boat noises or movements, disturbance of their natural habitat by increased boat traffic, or playful behaviour that can have serious consequences. However, the exact reasons for their behaviour are still under scientific study, with some theories suggesting they may be fearful or simply playing.
In a chilling turn of events, another sailboat was in danger three days later. On Friday, a sailboat sank off the coast of Caparica, but further details about the incident are not yet available.
As the marine life and boat traffic continue to intersect, these incidents serve as a reminder of the need for coexistence and respect for these magnificent creatures and their habitats. It is crucial for boat operators to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to minimise disturbances to marine life.
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