What is the West Coast Community of orcas?

The West Coast Community is a group of orcas historically found around the UK and Ireland, numbering 10 individuals in the 1990s.

Where were the UK orcas sighted recently?

The believed last surviving UK orcas were sighted off Scotland's west coast, including the Sound of Rum and near Skye.

Who is monitoring the last UK orcas?

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (HWDT) conducted the survey that recorded the recent sightings of the male orcas.

Home / Environment / Last UK Orcas Spotted Off Scotland Coast

Last UK Orcas Spotted Off Scotland Coast

19 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Rare UK orcas, the West Coast Community, have been sighted.
Only two males, John Coe and Aquarius, have been spotted since 2016.
Sightings occurred in September and November off Scotland's coast.

Last UK Orcas Spotted Off Scotland Coast

A recent sea life survey off Scotland's west coast has brought hopeful news with the sighting of what are believed to be the last surviving members of the UK's West Coast Community orca group. This pod, once numbering 10 individuals in the 1990s and frequently seen around the UK and Ireland, has dwindled significantly.

Since 2016, when a female orca known as Lulu was found deceased, only two males, named John Coe and Aquarius, have been spotted. These recent sightings are particularly significant as they confirm the presence of these two individuals together.

The Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust reported that the bull killer whales were observed in the Sound of Rum in September and off the coast of Skye in November, offering a glimmer of hope for the survival of this unique group.

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