Pod of orcas captured in ‘amazing’ footage off Shetland coast

A large pod of orcas has been filmed sizing up fishermen’s catch 50 miles east of Sumburgh Head on the coast of Shetland.

Nigel Tulloch, who works on the deck of Shetland-based fishing vessel Research (LK62), described being surrounded by the majestic apex predators.

“They were as far as the eye could see, and around 40 to 50 close in around the ship.

“We’ve been seeing this for the last 20, 25 years as we fished, but only now, thanks to social media, can the public see it and believe what we say,” explained Nigel.

“My kids used to come off in the summer holidays and throw in fish and feed them, and they’re in their 30s now.”

Orcas are most frequently seen on the north and west coasts of Scotland, with rare sightings on the east coast as well.

A small pod resides year-round on the west coast, and northern pods are commonly sighted in Shetland, Orkney and on the north coast.

Orcas, or killer whales, are apex predators recognisable by their black and white patterned bodies and can grow up to ten metres in size.

Pods can reach up to 50 individuals and can travel at up to 35 miles per hour.

“They are amazing, majestic, intelligent animals,” added Nigel.

“At this time of year, they have new young calves, and we have watched for years mothers nudging them in and teaching them to eat any escaped fish from our cod-end as we pump the mackerel onboard.”