Tourists were left stunned after a dead orca washed up on a popular beach – covered in horrific injuries.
The young killer whale was found riddled with deep lacerations across its body after being discovered in the Caribbean.
At first, authorities feared the animal may have been struck by a boat’s propellers.
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But experts now believe the gruesome wounds were likely caused by a shark attack.
The juvenile orca – measuring around 7ft 2in – was found in the resort town of Moñitos in northern Colombia on Friday (10 April).
Its rare appearance in the warm Caribbean waters sparked an immediate investigation.
Shocked beachgoers described the sight of the black-and-white whale lying motionless on the shore as “impactful”.
Officials confirmed the animal was a young female and had suffered severe injuries, including deep cuts and a partially mutilated tail fin.
A specialist team of vets and biologists was quickly sent to examine the carcass, as reported by Need To Know.
Environmental official Albeiro Arrieta said: “Currently, expert veterinarians and biologists are in the process of identifying the probable causes of death.”
He added: “While these animals are from colder waters, it is not infrequent for them to reach the warmer waters of the Caribbean.”
After a detailed assessment, investigators concluded the orca most likely died following a shark attack.
Bite marks found on the body were consistent with predatory or scavenging behaviour – with no signs of human involvement or fishing net entanglement.
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