British Columbia’s killer whales are becoming dangerously accustomed to human contact, which has resulted in stiff penalties for people who make physical contact with orcas. A woman was arrested for petting one and could face a fine of up to CDN$100,000.
Residents of the small community on the west coast of Vancouver Island have been getting friendly with the orca, known locally as Luna, for the past two years.
The whale became separated from his pod and has gradually become more accustomed to people, now spending much of his time near the local government dock.