Orca chases man in kayak off Argentinian coast; animal changes course

A startling encounter occurred off the coast of Río Negro, Argentina, when an orca was filmed aggressively pursuing a man paddling in a kayak. The incident, which took place in the Gulf of San Matías, showed the orca, identified by scientists as "Pao" (PTN-006), heading directly and rapidly toward the kayaker, who was attempting to reach shore.

Researchers from the Península Valdés Orca Research organization explained that the sound of the kayak's paddles in the water likely confused the orca. They suggest the animal perceived the noise as similar to the movements of a sea lion, a common food source in the Patagonian region.

“

Today, May 25, 2026, in the afternoon, the male Pao (PTN-006) starred in a situation we had never witnessed before.

Fortunately, the orca reportedly detected that the object was a human shortly after approaching. It then changed its course and returned to deeper waters without causing any injury or damage to the man. This behavior is considered unprecedented in the area, as attacks on humans by orcas are not common, especially outside of captivity.

Local resident Mili Yahuar filmed the event, while Fernando Mariño and Matías Acuña alerted experts for analysis. The organization studies the local orca population, their genealogy, behavior, and unique hunting techniques, such as "intentional stranding" to catch sea lion pups. While orca sightings are frequent between March-May and October-November, direct interactions like this are rare.

“

There are no records of orca attacks on humans, except in situations of captivity. However, we can imagine the fear this person must have felt.