Pod of orcas spotted between Dunoon and Gourock, thought to be hunting seals or porpoises

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

A pod of killer whales has been spotted in the river Clyde apparently hunting seals or porpoises.

Images and videos have been posted on social media over the weekend of about half a dozen killer whales, or orcas, between Dunoon and Gourock.

Lindsay Moss was on a Western Ferries service on Saturday when they made an appearance. Her footage shows three orcas, including what appears to be a youngster, rising to the surface before disappearing again.

Facebook Twitter Pinterest The pod of orcas in the River Clyde near Dunoon. Photograph: Keith Hodgins/PA

Orcas are sociable animals that travel in groups of up to 50. Although they are frequently seen near Arran in the Firth of Clyde, they have not been regular visitors to the upper Clyde for many years, experts say.



It is thought they were attracted to the area due to its abundance of food – porpoises and seals.

In the UK, killer whales are seen most regularly around the Shetland and Orkney islands.