Matriarchin

Matriarchin is the eldest of her group, the protector of her sub-pod. As with most species living in groups, there is a certain hierarchy among the orcas. The highest-ranking is usually the matriarch. When disputes arise between different sub-pods, the matriarch supports her eldest son. The calves stay with the mother all their lives and have enough time to learn the essentials of survival from her. This is how the orcas develop culture.

Adopt Matriarchin

Through research and information we want to draw attention to the situation of the dolphins in the Strait of Gibraltar and contribute to raising awareness. Thank you for supporting us with a symbolic sponsorship!

This is how we have experienced Matriarchin since the beginning of our adoption program:

2014

Matriarchin we sighted frequently and always in company of a baby. As a grandmother, she often looks after the offspring so that the mothers can go fishing for tuna. She always moves in a group of 5-7 orcas.

2015

We saw Matriarchin from time to time, but not as often as the years before. She always moves in a group of 5-7 Orcas, and Camacho is usually seen in the greater vicinity.

2018

To our great pleasure, the Matriarchin was present at the first sighting on June 26th. She had not visited the Strait of Gibraltar for two years, so we had not seen her. She seems to be well, surrounded by her family.

2019

The mother of Camorro and some of the big females was always part of the group this season. She is probably over 40 years old and is certainly the oldest in the big school. As a multiple grandmother, she was often seen with the young ones.

2020

We saw the Matriarchin on the 21st of August and also the two following days.

2021

Unfortunately, we didn't see the Matriarchin this year. We hope she's doing well.

2022

Matriarchin and her entire pod were nowhere to be seen this season either.

2023

On the 16th of May, we were delighted when the Matriarchin appeared with Camorro, outside of the usual Orca season. We spotted them eleven more times in August.

2024

The Matriarchin first appeared this season on the 19th of July. We saw her a total of seven times in July and August. Camorro was always by her side.