The Minister of the Environment, Dr. Yasmin Fouad, has declared a state of emergency in the South Sinai reserves following a shark attack on an Egyptian citizen. In response, Dr. Fouad has ordered the closure of a beach in Dahab until a thorough assessment of the situation can be conducted in collaboration with the South Sinai governorate.

Dr. Yasmin Fouad, who serves as the Minister of the Environment, emphasized the urgency of the matter by instructing the nature reserve staff in southern Sinai to swiftly form a committee dedicated to evaluating the circumstances surrounding the shark attacks and implementing measures to prevent further incidents, including beach surveillance.

After the shark attack, the injured citizen received prompt medical attention, and her condition has since stabilized. Immediate ambulance services were dispatched, and her health is currently under close observation.

Upon receiving a report of the shark attack, the Ministry’s Operations Room swiftly went into action, elevating the state of preparedness and initiating a coordinated response in cooperation with the South Sinai Governor and all relevant authorities. Comprehensive safety precautions have been taken to address this incident.

Information taken from the Ministry of Environment official statement

The Shark Trust and Blue Planet aquarium teams have been busy installing the Oceanic 31 shark art exhibition which will open to the public on Saturday 26th August and will run until Sunday 1st October 2023.

The Shark Trust has brought together a group of artists who are passionate about sharks, conservation, and using art as a tool for positive change. Each of the 31 paintings, drawings, sculptures and digital media represents a species of shark or ray that lives in the open ocean.

Why 31?

2021 saw a review of the status of 31 oceanic shark and ray species. Of the 31 species reviewed, 24 are threatened with extinction according to the IUCN Red List. Some of these species are famous – like the Great White or Whale Shark. But others, like the Pygmy Longhorned Devil Ray – aren’t quite so well known. Featuring all 31 in this exhibition is a great way to showcase just how varied and amazing oceanic sharks and rays are.

Why Oceanic?

Oceanic means relating to the high seas or open ocean. The species featured within Oceanic 31 all spend a large amount of time during their life here. These are the international waters beyond country borders, outside of normal jurisdiction and, crucially, at heightened risk from overexploitation due to a lack of agreed management and/or enforcement of regulation.

What can you do?

The Big Shark Pledge is at the heart of an ambitious campaign. By signing the petition, you can be part one of the biggest campaigning communities in the history of shark conservation. To put pressure on governments and fisheries. And make the positive changes required to safeguard these awesome sharks and rays.

Paul Cox, Shark Trust CEO, Said “This exhibition gives us the opportunity to reach out to a new audience. And inspire more people with the wonderful sharks and rays on which our Big Shark Pledge campaign is based. “

Unable to attend in person? The Shark Trust has created a 360° virtual exhibition. No matter where you are in the world, you can experience this awe-inspiring artwork.

Limited edition prints of some of the artwork are available to buy. If you want the chance to bid for an original artwork you can register your interest to attend the final auction. All profits will go towards the Shark Trust Big Shark Pledge campaign, working to protect the magnificent sharks and rays that swim in the high seas.

To find out more visit: https://www.sharktrust.org/oceanic31

PADI® (The Professional Association of Diving Instructors®) and Swiss prestige watchmaker,  Blancpain are combining resources to work towards saving 30% of the ocean by 2030 – with the two organizations teaming up to create the Vulnerable Marine Species Program. Blancpain’s support will be key in funding the Global Shark & Ray Census, a new citizen science initiative that is slated to launch Earth Day 2024 and is designed to help protect vulnerable marine species around the globe from extinction.

PADI and Blancpain have been kindred spirits in Ocean conservation starting over two decades ago with a whale shark identification project.  This latest evolution comes one year after both organizations announced an expanded commitment to partner and increase the number of marine protected areas (MPAs) around the globe.  As a founding partner of PADI’s Blueprint for Ocean Action, Blancpain accelerated the creation of PADI’s MPA Program and its flagship citizen science program Adopt the Blue–    Millions of recreational divers now have the direct ability to choose to be Ocean Torchbearers and directly engage in meaningful marine conservation activities while exploring the Ocean.

“Blancpain has long been committed to real engagement in Ocean Conservation issues. Working together, will be a force multiplier in achieving our shared Ocean Conservation goals” says Dr. Drew Richardson, CEO of PADI Worldwide and Chairman of PADI AWARE Foundation. “Blancpain’s expanded support of PADI’s Vulnerable Marine Species Program forges a juggernaut combining the Blancpain Ocean Commitment with the PADI Blueprint for Ocean Action  in advancing  positive ocean change.”

Now, with the generous support from Blancpain, PADI and global non-profit partner PADI AWARE Foundation^TM will build and deploy the largest underwater citizen science program designed to protect sharks and rays from extinction. In addition, PADI AWARE Foundation’s Mission Hub Community Grant Program will include support for both MPA and Vulnerable Marine Species Grantees internationally and at a local level. These grants support critical conservation initiatives in local communities all around the world.

PADI AWARE Foundation is among the world’s most successful shark and ray conservation organizations, with a 30-year track record of groundbreaking conservation measures for the oceanic whitetip shark, great hammerhead, giant manta ray, whale shark, and mako sharks – along with  many other vulnerable species. Last year at CITES (the Convention on Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in Panama City. PADI was invited to CITES and asked to provide specialist advice and research to all attending government representatives. This helped secure support for a critical vote to double the amount of protected shark and ray species. To date, the PADI AWARE Foundation and PADI have helped secure protection measures for over 105 species of sharks and rays.

“With a growing base of divers interested in shark conservation, the Global Shark and Ray Census enables divers to function as diving citizen scientists in order to collect high-quality data and information on vulnerable shark species. Engaged divers across the planet who choose to participate will directly help accelerate national and global protection measures where they are needed most,” continues Richardson.

If you would like to personally support the  PADI AWARE Foundation and Blancpain in creating positive ocean change, donations can be made to the PADI AWARE Shark Appeal. Blancpain has generously agreed to match donations 1:1, which will go towards supporting the development of the Vulnerable Species Program.

About Blancpain

​​Founded in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain in the Swiss Jura, Blancpain is known as the world’s oldest watch brand. Loyal to its tradition of innovation and confirmed by countless horological complications invented over the years, the Manufacture is constantly pushing the boundaries of watchmaking to take this art to places where it has never been before. Blancpain’s Ocean Commitment program pays homage to the brand’s significant historical links with the ocean, having launched the world’s first modern diving watch, the Fifty Fathoms, in 1953. This milestone moment in Blancpain’s near 300-year history marked the starting point of its collaborations with the ocean community, which have typified the 70 years since, as has its support for ocean conservation initiatives.  www.blancpain.com

About PADI 

PADI^® (Professional Association of Diving Instructors^®) is the largest purpose-driven diving organization with a global network of 6,600 dive centers and resorts, 128,000 professional members and more than 29 million certified divers to date. Committed to our blue planet, PADI makes the wonder of the underwater world accessible to all, empowering people around the world to experience, explore and take meaningful action, as Ocean Torchbearers^TM, to protect the world beneath the surface. For over 50 years, PADI is undeniably The Way the World Learns to Dive^®, setting the standard for the highest quality dive training, underwater safety and conservation initiatives while evolving the sport of diving into a passionate lifestyle. For divers by divers, PADI is obsessed with transforming lives and, with its global foundation, PADI AWARE^TM, creating positive ocean change. Seek Adventure. Save the Ocean.^SM  www.padi.com

Shark Week is back starting Sunday, July 23rd on Discovery.

Discovery’s most-anticipated event of the year, SHARK WEEK, returns for its 34th edition with more shock, more jaw, and more “Vitamin Sea” than ever before. Jason Momoa hosts Shark Week 2023.

Learn more at: https://www.discovery.com/shark-week/schedule

The Must-Sea Event of the Sumer is Back

Summer begins on July 2 with 72 hours of Sharkfest programming on National Geographic, Nat Geo WILD, Nat Geo Mundo, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN2. Sharkfest will entertain with four weeks of explosive, hair-raising, and celebratory shark programming that will showcase the captivating science, power, and beauty of these magnificent creatures – because one week is simply not enough.

National Geographic Society

By harnessing the power of science and storytelling, National Geographic Pristine Seas works to inspire the creation of protected areas where marine life can thrive. Join the National Geographic Society in protecting our ocean at natgeo.com/ocean.

Learn more at: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/topic/sharkfest

Hurghada, Egypt recently witnessed the embalming process of the Tiger Shark which fatally attacked a Russian tourist in the Red Sea.

According to local media reports, the process is being carried out by a team of marine biologists and preservationists. Under the supervision of Dr. Amir Hamza, the team employed advanced techniques. The embalming process involved draining the shark’s blood and replacing it with a specialized embalming fluid to halt decomposition.

The team meticulously repositioned the shark’s fins and tail to maintain its natural appearance. The preserved killer shark will be exhibited in Hurghada’s Marine Biology and Oceanography Museum, offering visitors an opportunity to observe the shark up close and learn about shark conservation.

Following the fatal attack on Vladimir Popov, local fisherman captured the tiger shark and subjected it to what many locals have described as a period of torture, including beating with sticks and a prolonged period out of the water while observers took photographs and selfies.

In a tragic incident that unfolded in Hurghada, Egypt, a Russian national lost their life in a shark attack while enjoying the beauty of the Red Sea. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ocean safety and the need for increased awareness among tourists and local communities alike. This article aims to provide a factual account of the incident, shedding light on the characteristics of the tiger shark involved, while promoting a respectful understanding of traditional shark behavior.

In Hurghada, a popular Egyptian Red Sea resort, tragedy struck as a shark attack claimed the life of a Russian tourist. The incident has left the local community and visitors in shock. Egyptian authorities swiftly responded to the incident, initiating investigations to gather information and assess the situation.

Tiger Shark Identification:

According to experts, the shark responsible for the attack was identified as a tiger shark. Tiger sharks are known for their large size, distinct striped markings, and preference for warm waters. While they are a formidable species, it is important to recognize that shark attacks are rare and isolated incidents that occur despite the sharks’ traditional behavior.

Shark Behavior:

Sharks are an integral part of the marine ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining balance and biodiversity. Contrary to sensationalized depictions in popular media, shark attacks are uncommon, and sharks generally pose little threat to humans. These creatures primarily feed on marine life and typically do not view humans as prey. However, rare cases of mistaken identity or defensive behavior can result in unfortunate encounters.

Ocean Safety and Conservation Efforts:

In the wake of this tragic incident, it is imperative to emphasize the importance of ocean safety and conservation efforts. Authorities in Hurghada have long been committed to ensuring the safety of visitors by implementing measures such as lifeguard services, safety guidelines, and regular monitoring of shark activity. Such initiatives are aimed at minimizing risks while preserving the marine environment.

Tourist Awareness and Responsible Tourism:

Visitors to coastal areas and diving destinations should familiarize themselves with local guidelines and adhere to safety protocols. Understanding and respecting traditional shark behavior can go a long way in preventing incidents and promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and marine life. Responsible tourism practices, including environmentally friendly activities and supporting local conservation projects, also play a significant role in protecting both tourists and marine ecosystems.

Conclusion:

The tragic shark attack in Hurghada, Egypt, underscores the importance of ocean safety, conservation efforts, and responsible tourism. While incidents like these are rare, they serve as a reminder for communities, tourists, and authorities to prioritize measures that enhance safety without instilling unnecessary fear or perpetuating misconceptions about shark behavior. By fostering a respectful understanding of these majestic creatures, we can ensure the well-being of both humans and the marine environment for generations to come.

Sharks, the majestic creatures of the deep, have long fascinated and intrigued humans with their powerful presence and mysterious nature. Often misunderstood, these magnificent creatures play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. In this article, we will explore the captivating world of sharks, shedding light on their behavior, while providing a balanced perspective on shark attack incidents.

The Diversity of Sharks:

Sharks belong to a diverse group of fish that encompasses more than 500 different species. Ranging from the colossal whale shark to the sleek and agile great white shark, each species possesses unique characteristics and adaptations that enable them to thrive in various marine environments.

Shark Behavior:

Contrary to their portrayal in popular culture, sharks are not mindless man-eaters. They are highly evolved predators, finely tuned to survive in their respective niches. Let’s delve into some fascinating aspects of their behavior:

1. Feeding Habits:

Sharks have a diverse range of feeding strategies. Some species, such as the great white shark, are apex predators that feed on a variety of marine animals, including seals and fish. Others, like the whale shark, are filter feeders that sift through large volumes of water to consume tiny plankton. Most sharks are opportunistic feeders, adapting their diet based on available prey.

2. Migration Patterns:

Many shark species exhibit impressive migration patterns, traveling vast distances in search of food or suitable breeding grounds. These migrations are vital for maintaining population diversity and ensuring the survival of various shark species.

3. Social Behavior:

While sharks are generally solitary creatures, some species engage in social behavior. Certain sharks form loose aggregations for mating or feeding, and some even display complex courtship rituals. However, the extent of social behavior varies greatly among species.

4. Senses and Adaptations:

Sharks possess an array of extraordinary senses that allow them to thrive in their marine environments. Their keen sense of smell can detect the scent of prey from miles away, while electroreception helps them locate prey hidden beneath the sand. Additionally, their streamlined bodies and powerful tails enable them to swim swiftly and with precision.

Shark Attacks: Understanding the Reality:

It is essential to discuss shark attacks in a responsible and objective manner. While the idea of encountering a shark can instill fear, it is crucial to note that shark attacks are relatively rare occurrences. In fact, humans are more likely to be injured by lightning strikes or in car accidents than by a shark.

Statistics on Shark Attacks:

According to recent statistics, the number of unprovoked shark attacks worldwide remains low, with an average of around 80 incidents annually. However, it is important to remember that the chances of encountering a shark are influenced by several factors, including geographical location, human activities, and environmental conditions.

Preventive Measures:

To ensure human safety and minimize potential encounters with sharks, coastal communities and individuals can adopt preventive measures. Some recommended practices include:

1. Beach Safety: Observe and follow any local guidelines or warnings regarding shark activity at beaches. Swim in designated areas with lifeguards and avoid swimming alone.

2. Avoiding Provocation: Respect marine wildlife and avoid behaviors that might provoke or attract sharks, such as excessive splashing, wearing shiny jewelry, or fishing near swimming areas.

3. Education and Awareness: Promote public education and awareness programs to provide accurate information about shark behavior, dispel misconceptions, and encourage conservation efforts.

Conclusion:

Sharks, with their intricate behaviors and vital roles in marine ecosystems, deserve our respect and understanding. By appreciating their diversity and dispelling myths surrounding shark attacks, we can foster a greater appreciation for these remarkable creatures. Let us strive to coexist responsibly with sharks and embrace their presence as an awe-inspiring component of our oceans’ delicate tapestry.

In a harrowing incident that has left the scuba diving community shaken, a Connecticut woman narrowly escaped death but tragically lost her leg during a shark attack in the idyllic waters of Turks and Caicos.

According to multiple reports from reputable sources, the victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was enjoying a recreational scuba dive when the shark suddenly struck.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with fellow divers rushing to the woman’s aid. Courageous onlookers managed to scare off the shark and pull the victim to safety, demonstrating immense bravery in the face of danger.

The prompt response from the local authorities and emergency services played a crucial role in the victim’s survival. She was promptly transported to a nearby medical facility, where she underwent emergency surgery. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, they were unable to save her leg due to the extent of the injuries sustained.

Diving enthusiasts and experts are now questioning the cause of the incident. While sharks are a natural presence in the waters around Turks and Caicos, attacks on humans are relatively rare. Marine biologists and shark conservationists are collaborating with local authorities to investigate the factors that might have triggered the aggressive behavior exhibited by the shark involved in the attack.

Officials from the Turks and Caicos Islands have assured the public that they are taking the incident seriously and implementing measures to ensure the safety of divers in the region. Enhanced monitoring, increased safety protocols, and educational initiatives are being considered to mitigate the risk of future encounters with sharks.

Shark attacks, though infrequent, can have a lasting impact on the victims and their families. Support and messages of encouragement have poured in from around the world as news of the Connecticut woman’s ordeal spreads. Many are highlighting her resilience and bravery in the face of such a traumatic event.

This incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with underwater activities and the need for individuals to adhere to safety guidelines and receive proper training before engaging in scuba diving. Experts emphasize the importance of respecting marine life and the habitats they inhabit.

As the investigation into the shark attack continues, it is hoped that the information gathered will contribute to a better understanding of shark behavior and lead to improved safety measures for divers worldwide.

The Shark Trust is excited to announce that for one week only, all donations, large or small, will be doubled in the Big Give Green Match Fund.

The Shark Trust is hoping to raise £10k which will be doubled to £20k. This will go towards their latest campaign, the Big Shark Pledge. The Big Shark Pledge is at the heart of an ambitious set of campaign actions. Working to secure science-based catch limits on all sharks and rays affected by the international high seas fishing fleet. The pledge will build the largest campaigning community in shark and ray conservation history to support a raft of policy actions over the vital years ahead.

Many of our best known and much-loved sharks make their home on the high seas. In our shared ocean, these oceanic sharks and rays face a very real threat from a huge international fleet of industrial-scale fishing vessels. Research published in early 2021 confirmed that over three-quarters of oceanic sharks and rays are now at risk of extinction due to the destructive impact of overfishing. They have declined by 71% over the last 50 years. 

Shark Trust CEO, Paul Cox, says of the Big Shark Pledge “It’s designed to give everyone who cares about the future of sharks the chance to add their voice to effective and proven conservation action. By adding their name to the Pledge, supporters will be given opportunities to apply pressure at key moments to influence change.”

Amazing oceanic sharks and rays are at risk from excessive fishing. Donate now, double your impact, and be part of the movement to save these remarkable creatures.

Donate, and double your impact, here: https://donate.biggive.org/campaign/a056900002Pol57AAB

Here at The Scuba News, we are always happy to support and raise awareness to the great work being undertaken by The Shark Trust. Check out this great video out more about who they are and how you can get involved.

Learn more about The Shark Trust at: https://www.sharktrust.org

Never let a shark sighting go to waste

The Shark Trust has launched a new smartphone app that makes it simple for everyone to get involved in shark science and conservation. The new app brings together five citizen science projects into one place, allowing users to report: shark sightings, eggcase finds, Basking Shark observations, angling catches, and incidents of shark entanglement with marine litter.

Through these projects, anyone with an interest in sharks, skates and rays can contribute to important research and have a lot of fun along the way. The findings can be submitted from anywhere in the world and will help scientists by providing a range of vital data from some of the 1200+ species of sharks, skates and rays that swim in our ocean.

As users submit their findings across the five citizen science projects, they will build a logbook of their research contributions. These are saved in their profile and shared with the wider community, so users can see what other people have recently been discovering.

Alongside this important citizen science aspect, there are also 50 collectible shark cards to unlock: 30 bronze cards, 15 silver cards, and five gold cards. Submitting to any of the projects unlocks a card at random, so you never know what you’re going to find! 

The Shark Trust’s flagship citizen science project, the Great Eggcase Hunt, which encourages the public to find the empty eggcases (or mermaid’s purses) of sharks and skate on the beach or submit those seen developing in situ, is celebrating its 20^th anniversary this year. 

Senior Conservation Officer Cat Gordon says “We’re really excited to be celebrating the Great Eggcase Hunt’s 20^thanniversary this year! As part of the celebrations, we’re releasing this brand-new citizen science app, hosting a public evening event, and planning a special edition of the Trust’s membership magazine Shark Focus. The project has grown substantially since 2003, when we received just 128 records in the first year, to having a staggering 50,212 individual eggcases recorded in 2022 alone! In total, we’ve received over 370,000 eggcases since the project began, and we hope the app inspires even more people to get out and about in search of mermaid’s purses!”

The Great Eggcase Hunt element of the app features eggcases from species which can be found in the Northeast Atlantic, as well as those in Australia (working in partnership with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation). In time we will add identification materials from more regions, but until then, records can still be submitted from outside these areas. This app replaces the previous Great Eggcase Hunt app which was launched in 2014 – so if you previously used that then please delete it and download the new version!

If you are interested in sharks, skates and rays and want to help contribute towards research and conservation, the Shark Trust citizen science app is for you. Everyone from the occasional beachgoer to seasoned divers and anglers can get involved.

Paul Cox, Shark Trust CEO, says “For a while we’ve wanted to make it easier and more fun for people to identify and record their sightings. Thanks to a generous donation from Animal Friends Pet Insurance, we’ve been able to create this great tool with local gamification specialists, Kazow Games. We’re really excited to get this app out into the world and start to see more recorders getting involved with our projects.”

Search for ‘Shark Trust’ in the relevant app store, download the app today, and start recording your findings. We are already working on some exciting updates and are still welcoming feedback, so if you have opportunity to try it out, please let us know what you think! 

Let’s build a global community of citizen scientists who can help protect these incredible animals together!

“”It has been quite some time since I introduced myself, and as I have had several new connections, here is a summary of my work, passion, and last 29-year career. I have been a professional diver since 1994. I am an ocean and cave explorer, a shark behaviorist and expert, speaker, a writer, and a conservationist.

Among my qualifications, I am a PADI Course Director, NSS-CDS advanced cave diving instructor, a TDI mixed gas, KISS rebreathers, and a tech instructor.

I love teaching; I share my time between teaching at professional and technical levels, working with sharks, exploring, mapping underwater cave systems, and helping any diver develop to their maximum potential.

Although I am known for my special relationship with my local shiver of Caribbean Reef sharks, I have worked with over twelve different species in many parts of the world, and I have a passion for education and conservation and for promoting the protection of all sharks, I am a big supporter of education for conservation.

I am an active sponsor of the Our World Underwater Scholarship Society and the Women Divers Hall of Fame mentorship program. I spend countless hours educating through direct or virtual presentations.

Some of my proudest moments are being instrumental in declaring The Bahamas as a shark sanctuary, connecting caves through exploration never accomplished before, and discovering and exploring numerous new cave systems.

With the amazing Kewin Lorenzen, some of our current projects include shark photogrammetry and identifying sharks’ mating and birth areas, creating interactive and 3D cave maps, photography and videography of these uncharted areas in the Bahamas; we also host an average of eight to ten students per year.

In 2019 we founded the nonprofit People of the Water, www.pownonprofit.org, organized to widen the conduction and distribution of training, education, research, and studies relating to water, ocean, and environmental issues, affecting both the people and the animals of said environments.

After twenty-nine years in this career, I am still diving professionally and at a personal level and pushing the boundaries of our knowledge.

I have been inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Fame (2011), the Explorers Club (2013), and the Ocean Artists Society (2015) and received a few recognitions throughout my career.

I am an active writer for Diver Magazine, where I publish a Shark Column, and for Eco-Watch, where I post monthly blogs about conservation.

Find out more about my work and passion at www.cristinazenato.com and www.pownonprofit.org

Thanks to Cristina Zenato for the submission of her article.

Follow Cristina on Twitter, and Instagram.

Sea Shepherd thanks you for your support in 2022. Our supporters fund every aspect of our campaigns, from the engines and bridge to the vegan crew meals and the technology required to detect illegal fishing gear.

With you by our side in 2022, we significantly increased the impact of Operation Milagro on the future of the Vaquita Porpoise, welcomed new ships to our fleet, and just days ago won a victory in the US Court of International Trade to protect Maui Dolphins.

Our pride in what we accomplished this year is only surpassed by our excitement for 2023 and the impact we will have together in protecting some of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems.

The sole mission of Sea Shepherd is to protect and conserve the world’s oceans and marine wildlife. We work to protect all marine wildlife, including whales and dolphins, sharks and rays, fish and krill.

Learn more at Sea Shepherd

Defra’s Commercial Designations of Fish allows 46 shark species to be sold under 6 generic names in UK chippies and fishmongers (e.g. Rock Salmon). These include Critically Endangered sharks. We ask that shark must instead be sold under common names to enable consumers to make ethical choices.

Sharks are critical to oceans

46 (often rare) sharks can be sold as Rock Salmon, Rock Eel, Dogfish, Flake, Huss or Rigg. 94 DNA samples showed an 86% chance of eating Spiny Dogfish in a chippy when ordering fish listed under these names.

The IUCN Red List assessment found that Spiny Dogfish stock in the NE Atlantic was Critically Endangered, and Vulnerable to Extinction globally.

Tope – Critically Endangered globally – is sold under these names too. For comparison, orangutans and gorillas are also Critically Endangered.

Sign the petition at: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/621367

With the ink still drying on last week’s landmark listing of nearly 100 species of sharks on Appendix II of CITES, the Shark Trust insists that this is not the time for shark conservation to take a break. The UK-based NGO this week launches its biggest-ever concerted campaign to tackle the overfishing of oceanic sharks. They are calling on people across the world to join the call for stricter controls on high seas fisheries.

The Big Shark Pledge is at the heart of an ambitious set of campaign actions. Working to secure science-based catch limits on all sharks and rays affected by the international high seas fishing fleet. The pledge will build the largest campaigning community in shark and ray conservation history to support a raft of policy actions over the vital years ahead.

Many of our best known and much-loved sharks make their home on the high seas. In our shared ocean, these oceanic sharks and rays face a very real threat from a huge international fleet of industrial-scale fishing vessels. Research published in early 2021 confirmed that over three-quarters of oceanic sharks and rays are now at risk of extinction due to the destructive impact of overfishing. They have declined by 71% over the last 50 years. 

The Shark Trust is celebrating its 25^th Anniversary this year and has a long history of securing positive changes for sharks, skates and rays. The Big Shark Pledge will build on the success of their NoLimits? campaign which underpinned landmark catch limits on Blue Sharks and Shortfin Mako in the North Atlantic.

“While the listing of so many species on the CITES trade agreement is certainly a positive step, there remains a huge challenge in ensuring that sustainable practices are embedded in international fisheries.” says Shark Trust Director of Conservation, Ali Hood. “Sharks on the high seas face extraordinary pressure from excessive fishing practices. This has to be addressed through international agreements such as those secured for Blues and makos.” 

There is hope and a feeling of momentum in the shark conservation community. Just last week, in addition to the new CITES listings, the Shark Trust, working with partners in the Shark League, secured the first-ever international quota for South Atlantic Mako at ICCAT meeting in Portugal. The new campaign from the Shark Trust aims to push forwards from here, engaging a wave of support through the Big Shark Pledge to bolster policy action.

This will be a long-term international and collaborative effort. Forging a pathway to rebuild populations of high-seas sharks and rays. By putting science at the heart of shark conservation and fisheries management. And making the vital changes needed to set populations on the road to recovery. 

Shark Trust CEO Paul Cox says of the Big Shark Pledge “It’s designed to give everyone who cares about the future of sharks the chance to add their voice to effective and proven conservation action. By adding their name to the Pledge, supporters will be given opportunities to apply pressure at key moments to influence change.”

Find out more here: https://bigsharkpledge.org/

Scuba divers rally to protect an unprecedented 60 threatened species

PADI^® (Professional Association of Diving Instructors^®) is celebrating a major win today in their fight to save sharks. At the 19^th meeting of CITES (the Convention on Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in Panama City, government representatives agreed to restrict international trade for all requiem sharks, one of the biggest family of species, all hammerhead sharks, and all guitar sharks adding an extra 60 species to the list of shark species protected by CITES on Appendix II.

This positive outcome follows PADI being asked by the host nation of Panama to provide specialist advice and research to all attending government representatives to help secure support for a critical vote to double the amount of protected shark and ray species.  In the lead-up to this important vote, PADI actively mobilized their global community of 128,000 PADI Professionals, 6,600 PADI Dive Centers and Resorts, and the over 29 million certified PADI Divers to take part by urging their own local governments to take action at CITES – and asking all ocean torchbearers (whether a diver or not) who are passionately committed to creating positive ocean change to sign the petition that urged governments to vote “YES”.

“Today’s decision to restrict the unsustainable global trade in some of the most threatened species on the planet provides us all with a hope and optimism that we are not too late to end the dramatic declines in the ocean’s most iconic, and critical, animals,” said Ian Campbell, Associate Director of Policy and Campaigns for the PADI AWARE Foundation^TM, which is PADI’s global non-profit. 

“The listing of requiem sharks, an iconic group of species that includes diver favorites such as the blacktip reef shark, bull shark and grey reef shark sends a strong signal that healthy populations of these animals are economically important far more than just the trade in their harvested fins, meat and organs.”

Shark tourism generates hundreds of millions of dollars globally, contributing to the economies of countries around the world and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. Previous studies of the tourism sector indicate shark-based tourism is on track to generate over three-quarters of a billion dollars a year over the next decade.

With the global pandemic having a significant impact on the economies of island nations such as Fiji, the Maldives and the Bahamas, the growth in shark tourism is likely to play a significant role in the financial recovery of countries with healthy shark populations around the world.

“This result, to limit the international trade in shark species that are found at the world’s most popular dive spots, will bring a huge economic boost to communities across the globe,” says Julio Salvatori, the South America Regional Manager for PADI and technical adviser to the Panamanian government. “The prospect of diving with sharks in their natural environment is a major attraction for the recreational dive sector, many of which made their concerns known to the decision-makers. We are optimistic that this can be a turning point for shark populations worldwide.”

Recent studies have indicated that sharks – and their close relatives the rays – are one of the most threatened groups of animals on the planet. Over a third of all species are classed as facing an increased risk of extinction, mainly due to overfishing, habitat loss and unsustainable trade.

“We commend the strong leadership and commitment to conservation shown by the government of Panama, supported by many others, to secure this much-needed trade restriction,” continues Campbell. We also realize that this decision is only the start of the recovery for many shark species, and the revenue-generating recreational diving sector is primed to play its role in implementing the commitments made today.”

Protecting sharks is a core component of PADI’s Blueprint for Ocean Action, with the established goal of reducing the number of sharks and rays facing extinction by 25% in the next decade. To date, PADI has already helped secure protection measures for 51 species of sharks and rays, with today’s vote more than doubling that number to a total of 105 species. 

To learn more about how to support PADI’s continued conservation efforts to save vulnerable marine species like sharks, visit https://www.padi.com/aware

One of the defining features of nurse sharks is a brown coloration that is present over their entire body. However, on March 22, 2022, recreational divers in Utila, Honduras stumbled upon a unique individual with a rare condition that completely alters the typical pigmentation pattern in the skin.

The finding was recently published in a new study, “Observations of hypomelanosis in the nurse shark Ginglymostoma cirratum,” in the Journal of Fish Biology, led by researchers at Beneath The Waves (BTW). Working with members of the Caribbean Shark Coalition, the team at BTW saw this reported finding as an opportunity to emphasize the value of citizen science for shark and ray conservation. The diverse, non-traditional author list of this publication demonstrates that science can and should be made accessible to those beyond the scientific community in order to add to the scientific database of sharks, marine life, and marine habitats. 

This sighting became the first documented account of a nurse shark with piebaldism, a rare skin condition that results in a partial loss of body pigmentation, with eyes remaining as their regular coloration. The unique coloring made this nurse shark easily identifiable, and the divers saw it on two different dives in two different locations.

Nurse shark with piebaldism (left) compared to regular pigmentation (right).

Piebaldism is part of a larger suite of pigmentation deficiencies called hypomelanosis. This includes albinism, which results in a complete loss of pigmentation in the skin and iris, and leucism which causes total or partial loss of body pigment and a blue coloration to the iris and body.

Hypomelanosis is incredibly rare in the animal kingdom, particularly in sharks, skates, and rays. Only about 5% of these species have been documented with these conditions, one being a tawny nurse shark with albinism, and another being a nurse shark with leucism.

In nature, if an animal relies on camouflage to hunt or avoid predation, unusual skin conditions could affect its ability to do this successfully, ultimately impacting its chance of survival. With the rarity of these conditions in sharks, little is known about their effects.

This particular individual was about an average size for the species, at approximately 6 feet in length. Because of this size, we can assume that it has been able to hunt and avoid predators successfully to reach maturity. Since nurse sharks have a generalist lifestyle where they eat a wide range of foods and can survive in a variety of conditions, this was somewhat expected. Even so, this rare observation calls for more research on the potential consequences of hypomelanosis on the survivability of sharks, skates, and rays. This is only the second time this species has been scientifically documented to have a skin condition that can affect their pigmentation.

Photos provided to Beneath The Waves by Dive Curacao, Alton’s Dive Center, the Caribbean Shark Coalition, Ellie Hopgood and Wilson Haynes.

Edited by Alex Butler.

In all my years on the water, I have never had something land unexpectedly on my deck. Unless you count a frisbee, or the occasional tipsy neighbor who saunters over uninvited from the dock party. I also don’t live in an area where terror lurks below the waterline. It’s a perk of living in the freshwater playgrounds of the Great Lakes, and I have immense gratitude knowing that nothing will bite, sting, or drown me when I jump in. In fact, the closest I’ve ever come to an underwater surprise was reeling in a mud puppy while fishing on Lake Nipissing (at the time, I was not aware freshwater lakes held salamanders. Turns out they do. Then it crawled up my friend’s arm…). Anyway, if you’re a saltwater boater your chances of a predatory encounter are much greater than us unsalted prudes.

Case in point- a boater in New Zealand was out fishing with pals when a 9-foot mako shark took a swan dive onto his foredeck. Ryan Churches, the owner of Churchy’s Charter NZ, was fishing off the coast of Whitianga on November 5th when he and his crew were loudly alerted to a new sailor on board — a very angro mako shark. Whitianga is about 70 miles east of Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island and is a well-known fishing ground for professionals and amateurs alike.

In an interview with the New Zealand Herald, Churches said the group was hunting for kingfish when the toothy sailor landed hard on the deck. Churches called the experience “bonkers,” and said it gave them “a hell of a fright,” which seems fitting when a 350 lb super predator drops from the sky.

There’s several ‘bleeps’ in the video footage, but we’ll give Churches and crew a pass on that.

“We were out at the Aldermans fishing with five customers on board winding a bait in and the mako took the bait.

“We were fighting it normally and it was jumping around. I told the customers ‘if it jumps in the boat get out of the way’.

As the shark struggled with its predicament, the fishermen became increasingly worried they might need to help free the shark, the skipper told The Herald.

That’s understandable, since mako sharks are considered an “aggressive predator,” even by shark standards, and is considered the fastest shark species on Earth with cruising speeds up to 31 mph and can burst up to 46 mph when chasing prey. Makos are also known to launch themselves out of the water when hunting, not unlike the haunting videos you see of Great White’s launching after seals.

They’re not a small fish either — makos can grow up to 12 feet in length and tip the scales at over 1200 lbs.

But all is well that ends well. According to Churches, “He got away safe. There’s nothing much we could do. We can’t go up the front to go near it because they go absolutely bonkers.

“We dropped the anchor down a little bit because it seemed to be holding it in place [on the boat]. He went absolutely bonkers again and pushed himself through the bow rail and slid back into the water.”

“I was trying to figure out ways of how to get it off if it didn’t slide off. I was thinking what the f*** do we do? But it all worked out.”

BoatBlurb Newsletter

“Sharks: In Deep Water is a film to change things,” explains Producer Matt Brierley. The film’s global online premiere is 8^th Nov 2022 and tickets can be obtained through www.sharksindeepwater.com enabling you to stream the film at home.  

Sharks matter. Without the sea’s top predators ocean ecosystems collapse. We are perilously close to creating tipping points beneath the waves – in many places ocean systems have already collapsed, taking with them people’s livelihoods and their primary source of protein. 

Shark conservation is a topic close to many people’s hearts. It is also an issue that conjures images of shark finning and Eastern markets. Sharks: In Deep Water tells a new story. 

Laws to protect sharks from finning at sea have tragically backfired. Today sharks must have their fins removed on land. That has sparked a global trade in shark meat. As top of the food chain in a polluted ocean, sharks bioaccumulate toxicants in concentrations harmful to their health – and ours if we eat them. 

Undercover investigation by Sharks: In Deep Water found sharks in Western ports and on menus in high-end UK restaurants. The film conducted DNA analysis of battered fish sold in UK fish and chip shops. The results proved conclusively that Endangered shark is sold under confusing names. The findings made headlines across the UK. 

“Shark livers are also harvested – typically from deep water sharks science knows very little about. Again these are Western market forces not Eastern,” Matt Brierley said. “For too long we’ve understood shark conservation as a simple story; sharks are finned at sea by Eastern countries. But the story has moved on and that old narrative is excusing the Western nations who are fishing shark and selling it. The UK and EU are hugely complicit in the greatest underwater extinction event of our time.” 

Sharks: In Deep Water is a film that has been designed to educate, inspire and – ultimately – to make a difference. It is uplifting and joyful at times, sad at others, but crucially it is hopeful and an authentic telling of the issues facing sharks present day.

Join Matt, Louise and Samantha and their team as they journey from Morocco to Continental Europe and on into the UK, documenting a trade in sharks closer to home than you ever imagined possible – and finding ways to spark positive change. 

Producer Matt Brierley has worked across a suite of Natural History programming including Planet Earth II, Blue Planet II and The Earthshot Prize: Repairing Our Planet. 

To watch the film’s trailer, get tickets to the online premiere or learn more about the film visit www.sharksindeepwater.com. Details of future screenings will also be announced there.

To sign the film’s present petition to stop the sale of Endangered shark in UK fish and chip shops visit https://tinyurl.com/chippypetition 

The film team would like to thank Primordial Radio, Bristol Green Capital, Greenpeace, Exeter University, Manchester University, The Daily Mirror, the MCSUK and those who generously supported and publicised their crowdfunding campaigns. 

On October 12th Jett Britnell will be presenting “A Night in the Depths: Sharks, Shipwrecks & Undersea Adventure” at Diving Sports Canada. Diving Sports is a scuba diving, freediving and spearfishing retail store based in Vancouver, BC. Come get wet…errrr… totally entertained!

Jett Britnell is an Underwater, Wildlife & Expedition Photographer / Explorer / Scuba & Travel Writer / Speaker.

He is a member of the following organizations

• Canadian Chapter Chair at The Explorers Club
• Fellow at Royal Canadian Geographical Society
• Fellow at The Explorers Club
• Fellow at Royal Geographical Society with IBG
• Consultant at Elephanatics
• Columnist at Luxe Beat Magazine
• Featured Photographer at The Ocean Agency
• Member at Ocean Artists Society
• Self-Employed at Jett Britnell Photographics

Details

Wednesday,October 12, 2022 – 18:30pm to 20:00pm (PT)

Diving Sports Canada, 4578 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3R5

Register Here for a Seat

Follow Jett Britnell at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

The results are in! Hundreds of divers took part in the first Shark Trust Great Shark Snapshot at the end of July. All around the world, shark and ray survey dives were conducted by individuals, dive clubs, liveaboards and dive centres. From the UK to Australia, Palau to The Bahamas, Hawaii to the Philippines, the sightings poured in. Nearly two thousand sharks and rays were recorded over the 7 days of the Great Shark Snapshot. 49 different species were spotted in 14 countries.  

Caroline Robertson-Brown, Marketing Coordinator at the Shark Trust said “I am delighted with how our first Great Shark Snapshot has gone. What I loved most was getting so many messages from people saying how much they enjoyed taking part. Many dive centres I have spoken to have now decided to run regular shark and ray survey events and will be adding their sightings to our Shark Log database.”  

Whether divers were seeing their first shark, celebrating their 100th dive, seeing a shark or ray they had not seen before, or seeing sharks in huge numbers, the stories from the first Great Shark Snapshot have been uplifting. Some examples shared over social media during the week, using #greatsharksnapshot, include Lahaina Divers in Hawaii seeing 78 Scalloped Hammerheads, Tenerife Diving Academy seeing a Duckbill Eagle Ray and Sundive Byron Bay in Australia seeing 58 wobbegong sharks on a single drift dive. The very first shark sighting to come in was from Thresher Shark Divers in the Philippines who saw 5 Pelagic Thresher Sharks on their first dive of the Great Shark Snapshot. Basking Sharks, from Basking Shark Scotland, and Blue Sharks, from Celtic Deep, were spotted in Scotland and Wales respectively.  

Aggressor Adventures had around 100 divers, on 5 of their liveaboards, take part in the Great Shark Snapshot. Cole Watkins, Director of Content Strategy at Aggressor Adventures said “We were delighted to help participate in this year’s Great Shark Snapshot. Not only did our liveaboard staff enjoy conducting the census, but our customers did as well. We understand that this information is important in maintaining healthy ecosystems and gives a better understanding of how populations of marine species can and do change over time. Aggressor Adventures is looking forward to participating in the Great Shark Snapshot for years to come”  

Divers are in a unique position to be able to record the sharks and rays that they see. Their input to the Shark Trust Shark Log sightings database is crucial. Whether it is an exotic holiday of a lifetime, or diving the local coastline, all shark and ray sightings are valuable to help increase knowledge and understanding of sharks, skates and rays.  

Non-divers also did their bit, with 380 eggcases, from 8 different species, recorded in the Great Eggcase Hunt database. The Shark Trust will soon have a new app available to make recording shark and ray sightings, as well as eggcase finds, even easier. Watch out for more news on this soon.  

The Great Shark Snapshot is a wonderful way for divers to get together, go diving, and do something to help shark conservation. The Shark Trust wants to thank everyone that took part in this first event. Dates for the 2023 Great Shark Snapshot will be released early next year.  

For more information about the Great Shark Snapshot: https://www.sharktrust.org/the-great-shark-snapshot 

Pop the popcorn and enjoy your favourite beverage…..Shark Week is coming to Discovery and Discovery+(stream) on July 24, 2022.

This annual event is the height of summer, with hours of programming showcasing the ocean’s most fearsome predator. Shark Week has appeared for 34 years on the tube. People are obsessed with the real-life Jaws.

Shark Week is a weekly television programming block on the Discovery Channel that features shark-related programming. Shark Week first aired on July 17, 1988. It was originally dedicated to conservation efforts and dispelling shark myths, and was held annually in July or early August. It grew in popularity over time and became a hit on the Discovery Channel. It has been the longest-running cable television programming event in history since 2010. Shark Week is broadcast in over 72 countries and heavily promoted on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Episodes can also be purchased through services such as Google Play Movies & TV/YouTube, Amazon Video, and iTunes. Some episodes are available for free on the subscription-based services Hulu and Discovery+.

Learn more at: https://www.discovery.com/shark-week/shark-week-2022

Two separate shark incidents occurred in the Sahl Hasheesh area of the Red Sea on Friday, both of which resulted in fatalities.

A 68 year old woman believed to be Austrian but a resident of Egypt was involved in the first incident in the Red Sea resort of Sahl Hasheesh which is located just south of Hurghada. The victim, who was snorkelling in the area at the time lost a leg and an arm in the attack and died on the way to the hospital.

The Chamber of Diving and Watersports initially said it was a Mako shark but others believe it could have been an oceanic whitetip.

The second incident a few hours later in the same vicinity and involved a woman who is being reported as Romanian.

The Governor of the Red Sea Governorate suspended all water activities in the area for 3 days while each incident could be fully investigated.

Please ask the State of Florida to prohibit the possession, sale, trade, purchase, shipping, barter, exchange, or distribution of shark fins whether still intact as part of a whole or partial shark carcass or already dismembered; providing criminal penalties and the assessment of specified fees and costs by the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 

The act of shark finning may be illegal but a loophole in the law allows fisherman to fin the shark at the dock, and contribute to the shark finning trade by export, barter or the any other means mentioned above.

Sharks occupy the top of the aquatic food chain and play a critical role in the maintenance of a healthy and functioning marine ecosystem. Data from state, federal, and international agencies show a decline in shark populations both locally and worldwide. The decline in shark populations is an urgent problem that upsets the balance of species in marine ecosystems and constitutes a serious threat to biodiversity. Sharks have particular characteristics that make them more vulnerable to overfishing, as sharks are slow to reach reproductive maturity, birth small litters, and cannot rebuild their populations quickly once overfished. 

 What is Shark Finning? 

• Shark finning refers to the removal and retention of shark fins and the discard at sea of the carcass. The shark is most often still alive when it is tossed back into the water. Unable to swim, the shark experiences physical distress and difficulty in maintaining adequate oxygenation, causing millions of sharks to die a slow death by starvation, predation, suffocation, and drowning. 
• Any shark is taken-regardless of age, size, or species.
• Longlines, used in shark finning operations, are the most significant cause of losses in shark populations worldwide.
• Shark fins are among the most expensive seafood products, commonly retailing at US$400 per kg. In the United States, where finning is prohibited, some buyers regard the whale shark and the basking shark as trophy species, and pay $10,000 to $20,000 for a fin.  

Impact of Shark Finning

• Over 8,000 tons of shark fins are processed each year. The fins only amount to 4% of a shark’s bodyweight. This means that some 200,000 tons of shark are thrown back into the sea and discarded.
• The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Shark Specialist Group say that shark finning is widespread, and that “the rapidly expanding and largely unregulated shark fin trade represents one of the most serious threats to shark populations worldwide”
• Some shark populations have reduced from 70% in some species and up to 95% in others.  
• Already 18 species of sharks have been listed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The shark fin is used as a main ingredient in shark fin soup, which is a Chinese “delicacy.” The actual shark fin is tasteless and has no nutritional value, which is why the fin is boiled in a chicken or beef broth to add flavor. The United States Environmental protection agency advises women and young children to avoid it due to high mercury levels.

It is devastating that Florida allows participation in the barbaric shark fin trade. Please help us to stop all means of participation within our state in an effort to help save sharks.

Learn more and sign the petition at: https://www.change.org/p/ban-shark-fin-sales-in-florida

SharkFest will premiere on National Geographic television on Sunday, July 10 for four weeks. To commemorate SharkFest’s tenth anniversary, the network will air 30 hours of new content and 60 hours of augmented programming over four weeks beginning July 10, the most-packed “SharkFest” schedule in history. This increased content load is distributed not only across Nat Geo, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Mundo, Disney XD, and Disney+, but also across broadcast network ABC, cabler ESPN, and streamer Hulu.

The SharkFest 2022 programming delves into details on over 15 different shark species and includes footage from all over the world, including the Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica, Australia, Hawaii, South Africa, The Maldives, California, Massachusetts, Maine, Florida, and more.

SharkFest presented by National Geographic

Sharks are important indicators of ocean health because they are apex predators, and the ocean is our planet’s life support system. It covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, provides more than half of its oxygen, and is home to an incredible diversity of life. Despite this, only 7% of the ocean is currently protected in some way. National Geographic has a long history of investigating ocean mysteries, preserving marine ecosystems and wildlife, and increasing the number of marine sanctuaries around the world.

The Shark Trust is holding a global shark census between the 24^th and 31^st July inclusive. Divers around the world are being asked to record all the sharks, skates and rays that they see in that week and add them to the Shark Trust’s sightings database – Shark Log.  

Caroline Robertson-Brown from the Shark Trust said “The Great Shark Snapshot is a wonderful way to bring together divers from all over the world to take an active part in shark conservation”  

The information that divers collect during the week-long event will, over time, allow shark scientists to build a picture of species distribution and any changes that occur. Sharks all over the world are threatened by destructive fishing. The data collected during the Great Shark Snapshot will help scientists put effective conservation plans in place. 

It is easy to join in. Just go diving between 24^th and 31^st July and record every shark, ray and skate that you, your buddy or your dive group sees. If possible, take photos and some video footage too. The Shark Trust really wants to see what species you encounter on your dives. Make sure that you record your sightings on the Shark Trust Shark Log recordings website. If you need help identifying a species of shark head over to the Shark Trust website where you will find ID guides to help you.  

Divers looking to join an existing event can go to the Great Shark Snapshot map to find dives taking place near them. So far, dive centres, clubs and liveaboards in over 25 countries have registered to take part.  

Join the shark and dive communities online and let other divers know what you saw during your dives. Remember to use the hashtag #GreatSharkSnapshot and the Shark Trust will share sightings over the week. It will be incredible to see what divers around the world see on their Great Shark Snapshot dives.  

The Great Shark Snapshot is an amazing way for divers to get together, go diving, and get involved in shark conservation. Dive in! 

Learn more at: https://www.sharktrust.org/the-great-shark-snapshot 

Shark Angels, a U.S. based non-profit, is thrilled to launch their annual World Oceans Day Auction on June 5th via the global charity auction site, Charity Auctions Today one of the world’s leading auction platforms. Items are up for bid here or visit auction.sharkangels.org until June 19th, featuring some unbelievable dive expeditions around the globe.

“With the world shut down for the past two years, we’ve been unable to hold our annual auction,” explains Executive Director, Jamie Pollack. “Now that the world is reopening, we are excited to be able to offer these trips to help people travel once again and give them the opportunity to support us at this critical time. Proceeds from this auction will help to fuel Shark Angels’ innovative education and advocacy programs to protect sharks, one of the ocean’s apex species. The health of the world’s oceans depends on healthy shark populations, and every creature on earth depends on healthy oceans for survival. This is a tangible way to ensure your donations make a very real difference.”

This year’s United Nations World Oceans Day, on June 8, 2022 will highlight the theme Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean. We chose this time for our auction because protecting sharks also means protecting the beautiful blue oceans they inhabit. By bidding on these items and helping to spread the auction link, you can play a part in preserving this vital ecosystem. 

Shark Angels is a non-profit shark conservation organization that advocates for sharks and our beautiful blue planet by turning fear of sharks into fascination, and empowering the public through science, education, diving, legislation and outreach. 

Eugenie Clark, (born 1922) a trailblazing marine biologist who worked tirelessly to change public perception of sharks and preserve marine environments around the world, was honoured on May 4, 2022, on what would have been her 100th birthday, with a Forever stamp.

About Eugenie Clark

Eugenie Clark, also known as The Shark Lady, was an American ichthyologist known for her work on shark behaviour as well as her study of fish. Clark was a pioneer in the field of research scuba diving. Clark was not only regarded as an authority in marine biology, but she was also well-known and used her celebrity to promote marine conservation.

Clark was interested in marine science from a young age, and many of her school reports covered marine biology topics. Clark’s first visit to the New York Aquarium at Battery Park inspired her to return every Saturday after that, fascinated by marine animals. Clark was inspired to become an oceanographer by the work of naturalist William Beebe.

Eugenie Clark graduated from Hunter College with a Bachelor of Arts in Zoology (1942). She studied at the University of Michigan Biological Station during the summers, and prior to graduate school, she worked as a chemist for Celanese Corporation. Eugenie initially applied to Columbia University for graduate school, but her application was denied due to concerns that she would eventually choose to leave her scientific career to focus on raising children. Clark persevered, earning both a Master of Arts (1946) and a Doctorate of Zoology (1950) from New York University. Clark conducted research at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, the American Museum of Natural History in New York, the Woods Hole Marine Biological Laboratory in Massachusetts, and the Lerner Marine Laboratory in Bimini during her graduate studies.

Read The Scuba News Article on Eugenie Clark

Clark conducted fish population studies in Guam, the Marshall Islands, the Palau Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Caroline Islands in 1949 as part of an Office of Naval Research program to conduct scientific research in Micronesia. Clark received a Fulbright Scholarship after completing her doctoral research to pursue ichthyological studies at the Marine Biological Station in Hurghada, Egypt, on the northern Red Sea Coast. These events were discussed in Clark’s first book, Lady with a Spear (1953), which was partially funded by a Eugenie Saxton Memorial Fellowship and a Breadloaf Writers’ Fellowship. The book was a smash hit.

Clark, wrote two books, Lady with a Spear (1953) and The Lady and the Sharks (1969), as well as over 175 scientific articles. Clark was a strong advocate for marine conservation, and many of her popular publications and public appearances focused on dispelling myths about shark behaviour and intelligence in order to prevent shark killing and encourage the preservation of marine environments. Publications from her body of work show that she was the first to train sharks to press targets and the first scientist to develop “test tube” babies in female fish.

Clark conducted over 70 submersible dives and led more than 200 field research expeditions around the world during her decades of research. She was involved in the creation of the first IMAX film and worked on 24 television specials.

Eugenie Clark, “The Shark Lady” died on February 25, 2015, at the age of 92, but her legacy will live on.

In 2017, Ian Shaw, son of Robert Shaw from the classic, Jaws stumbled across a diary written by his Dad. Ian had taken after his farther and explored an acting career and realised that his resemblance to Robert was uncanny. Donning a moustache for a play he was working on at the time mirrored the character of Quint which gave Ian an idea. He was going to write a play about the signature story behind the scenes of the infamous Jaws movie. He did just that!

Ian pitched the idea to David Mounfield and Duncan Henderson, who both thought the idea would be a perfect fit for the Edinburgh Film Festival. He spoke to Joe Nixon, a writer friend to help him pull the play together and out of that ‘The Shark is Broken’ was born.

Ian Shaw, Liam Murray Scott and Demetri Goritsas act alongside each other as Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss and Roy Scheider in a funny, unexpected and quite frankly marvellous 90 minute play portraying how acting on the set of Jaws may have played out.

So much about the original Jaws film is wonderful. The animatronic sharks, of which there were three that relentlessly malfunctioned during filming. The dynamic crew that moved to various locations to capture different scenes in the script. The budget that was vastly over budget and spent on several things that didn’t work or prove to be reliable including ‘Bruce’ the great white. In fact rather than fear from a realistic looking, scary shark, much of the movies angst was created by the human imagination filling the gaps. After spending huge chunks of budget on fake sharks it was clear that the most terrifying shark was actually one that you never saw.

Jaws is a film that I watched as a teenager and have watched over and over ever since. Being able to go and see a different version of its events on stage in a beautiful theatre was just incredible. The simple set, absolutely brilliant stage presence of characters and ridiculous similarity to the real actors who shot Jaws is more than worth a look.

The West End Theatre, built in 1913 is one of the only remaining, untouched venues in London. After a tricky period being closed due to COVID 19, the theatre opened its doors to patrons to view, ‘The Shark is Broken’ and what a play to re-open with.

The mystery of the ocean and its creatures will always make a good film script because it is enthralling to all sorts of people. You don’t need to be a diver or marine biologist to love these types of films or plays but their sea theme and wonder encapsulates you because the unknown will always interest us.

Check out this play! It is an absolute must!

William Winram dove in the Red Sea with a weighted sled, as in Luc Besson’s movie Le Grand Bleu. But unlike in the movie he swam back to the surface with a pair of fins on a single breath of air, without the use of an airlift bag or the use of the rope for traction on the ascent.

On October 21, 2021 Winram dove to 393 feet (120 meters) and then to 426ft (130 meters) three days later at age 57.

William Winram grew up on Canada’s west coast, where he began free diving and spearfishing at a young age. Surfing, free diving, spearfishing, and sailing were just a few of his favourite activities. My father taught me how to free dive and how to respect the ocean. ‘It is your job to protect the sea if you are going to spend time in it,’ he said. Winram’s passion for the water has moved, inspired, and driven him for more than 40 years. Despite his best efforts to have a good impact on the environment, William began to see significant changes in the ecosystems he was diving in as the years passed.

By the end of 2006, William had risen to second place in a number of disciplines and was top-ranked at global championships. Now, he thought sponsorship money will start flowing in – how incorrect I was! As my competition diving skills improved, I realized that I might be able to use my free-diver position to make a difference. In 2008, the Malpelo Foundation invited him to use my breath-hold diving talents to tag sharks for the Malpelo Foundation in Colombia. It needed the data from tags to better safeguard the scalloped hammerhead shark, which is a highly migratory species. From there, Winram began to consider how he could be of even more assistance. William and his wife and began to look for funding as numerous research missions were being cancelled owing to a lack of funds — in some cases, there was not even enough money to buy tags. They finally found a foundation in Geneva, Switzerland, that was willing to fund us on a small basis in exchange for us becoming a non-profit. The Watermen Project was born out of this.

The Waterman Project

The Watermen Project has been sponsoring research around the world since 2008, by purchasing tags, receivers, and other equipment, as well as tagging sharks for researchers. William’s, as project leader, job entails a variety of tasks, including finding financing, analyzing study papers, determining the best tagging procedures, photographing and filming sharks, organizing expedition boats, and, of course, tagging sharks. Every shark species has its own set of difficulties. Some, like the scalloped hammerhead, are quite shy and pose little threat to our safety, whilst others, like the great white shark, can bite you if you aren’t careful. Since 2009, they have been working on a project at Guadalupe Island that involves putting acoustic tags on great white sharks.

Learn more at: https://saveourseas.com/project-leader/william-winram/

Follow William @ Facebook

After nearly three years of collaborative campaigns from ocean advocates around the world, the 51 countries and the European Union have agreed to place an immediate two-year ban on catching and retaining Atlantic shortfin mako sharks at the most recent meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).  

“The recent critical protection measures coming out of the ICCAT annual meeting are a direct result of a global, collective effort by numerous organizations and individuals all working toward the common goal of protecting mako sharks in the Atlantic,” says Ian Campbell, Associate Director, Policy and Campaigns of PADI AWARE Foundation. 

“Mako sharks, classified as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species, are particularly vulnerable to overfishing, especially in the North Atlantic, where we have witnessed populations decline severely. This ban is monumental and marks an important turning point for both the health of the mako shark population and, ultimately, the health of the ocean. We hope it will be the foundation for a much-needed recovery plan.” 

Since 2018, PADI AWARE Foundation has been collaborating with the Shark League NGO coalition to push countries to support the science to ban the retention of makos in the Atlantic, largely focusing on mobilizing PADI® Dive Centers, Resorts and Professionals in the key countries of Brazil and South Africa, as well as supporting efforts across the European Union and the US. Campaign efforts included the global #Divers4Makos petition that earned nearly 30,000 signatures and the launch of the PADI AWARE Shark Conservation course, enabling PADI Members to build local support in their communities for the global protection of mako sharks in their local waters. 

The main goal of these campaigns was to create a tidal wave of support from the public calling upon their governments to back the mako shark fishing ban, as well as illustrating the importance of a healthy ocean for marine tourism operators. By empowering PADI Dive Centers, Resorts and Professionals, the PADI AWARE Foundation was able to help create a powerful groundswell of letters, emails and social media movements directed at the respective governments in target countries. Efforts in Brazil and South Africa were particularly effective with locally-based operators able to advocate for mako shark conservation directly to their government representatives.  

“Not only did we shift people’s perceptions of sharks and the important role they play in the ocean, we were also able to get mako sharks the urgent protection they need, providing hope for their – and our oceans’ – futures,” says Campbell. 

In total, there were over 400 participants in the PADI AWARE Shark Conservation course, which resulted in over 500 photos of divers taking action, who also contacted their government to demand immediate action to protect makos.

“The effort and level of support shown by the diving industry exceeded our expectations, and the recent mako shark fishing ban in the Atlantic was directly affected by everyone who took part, and demonstrates how local action really can create global impact. The positive outcome of these efforts further fuels our drive to protect more endangered and vulnerable marine species,” says Campbell. 

PADI AWARE Foundation has a comprehensive portfolio of programs that support the PADI Blueprint for Ocean Action and are currently working to reduce the number of shark and ray species threatened with extinction by 25% by deploying more localized conservation campaigns.

Learn more about PADI AWARE Foundation at: https://www.padiaware.org

While diving off of Chebucto Head, Halifax, Nova Scotia. Dr. Chris Harvey and his dive companion, Michael Schwinghamer, encountered a great white shark sighting this week. The shark made three passes by them and they decided to exit the area immediately.

Chebucto Head, the peninsula’s most easterly point, is used to designate the southwestern border of Halifax Harbour; historically known to the Mi’kmaq Nation as “Jipugtug,” (anglicized as “Chebucto”), which means “Largest Harbour,” or simply “The Huge Harbour.”

According to Michael Schwinghamer, he has had the impression of a sighting a few times this summer while diving on locations. The “big stuff” enjoys hunting up and down the slopes. On Facebook, John Stone of East Coast Scuba and Watersports stated that visibility is low in the top 30′, due to unseasonably warm water into November and a large number of schooling bait fish. John has seen a lot of huge animals at this location, but no great whites, but times could be changing for the future.

Hunter Stevens has contacted dive businesses and is distributing information to divers via social media. His advice is to stay away from the bay openings. He went on to say that great whites had been spotted in the area, but that interactions with them are extremely rare. Avoid seal populations, and diving at dusk or early in the morning. When diving, don’t be afraid, but stay within your boundaries and use your best judgement.

Enjoy this Podcast by Mainstreet NS with Jeff Douglas @ the CBC

https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-37-mainstreet-ns

Bull sharks can be found roaming the shallow warm waters of all the world’s oceans, particularly the tropical coasts. But you will be amazed at some of the places they have been spotted!

Australian Golf Course

Six bull sharks live in the lake at the centre of Carbrook Golf Club, where their fins poking through the water has become a regular sight. That Queensland golf course is located near the Logan River, which flooded several times in the 1990s when some pups were most likely washed in and stranded. First sightings were dismissed as drunken tales, but by 2003 there started to be photographic evidence. 

These sharks are living happily and even thought to be breeding! The lake is about the size of Grand Central Station and well stocked with fish. The Golf Club now celebrates their sharky inhabitants with the “Shark Lake Challenge” tournament, on the last Wednesday of every month; and a stylized shark fin adorns the club logo.

621 miles/ 1,000 kms up The Mississippi River!

On separate occasions, in 1937 and 1995 fishermen caught a bull shark up North America’s second-longest river near St. Louis/ Illinois and Rush Island/ Missouri. This shark species is one of only a few in the world and the only one in the Americas that can remain in freshwater bodies for about a year or more, thanks to its amazing ability to adapt their organs. More about their skills can be found in our recent blog TOP 10 Least Known Facts about Bull Sharks.

Hanging with the Hippos

Another common name for the bull shark is the “Zambezi Shark” or “Zambi”, as they are often found up Africa’s fourth-longest river that hosts the Victoria Falls. And it is not uncommon to see these sharks hanging around a pod of hippos, attracted by the many small fish that feed off the large amounts of poop produced by those hippos. 

The St. Lucia estuary, one of Africa’s largest tidal wetlands, a mix of shallow, warm fresh and salt water provides a suitable habitat for bull sharks.

Inhabiting Lake Nicaragua 

Lake Nicaragua’s resident bull sharks were once thought to be a new species. In 1877 a group of scientists studied a mysterious species of freshwater shark found in Lake Nicaragua, concluding that it was a rare species of freshwater shark, endemic to the lake. The Nicaraguan government was so proud that they even issued a special edition of stamps with the image of the shark as a symbol of national identity.

They believed that Lake Nicaragua had started out as a bay in the Pacific Ocean that closed up as time went by, trapping some sharks inside that evolved into a brand-new species. But in 1976 it was realized that they were actually bull sharks, which still today travel about 124 miles/ 200 km along the San Juan River, from the Caribbean Sea to Lake Nicaragua. 

2,485 miles/ 4,000 kms up The Amazon River

This shark has even been seen 2,485 miles/ 4,000 kms away from the ocean up the Amazon river. Bull sharks have been known to travel all the way from the Brazilian coast up river to Iquitos in Peru and into northern Bolivia. Add these to the anacondas, caiman, dart frogs and poisonous insects and you want to watch carefully where you swim and tread.

Have you ever come up close to bull sharks or dived with them? If you did, where was that and how did you feel? If you didn’t get the chance yet to dive with this majestic predator, every winter between November and March there’s an opportunity for you to safely dive with Pro Dive International and mainly female bull sharks in front of Playa del Carmen, on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, where they give birth.

How to dive with Bull Sharks in Mexico?

1. Join Pro Dive International’s Bull Shark Excursion to Shark Point as a certified diver.
2. Be lucky and spot them during one of your regular local dives in front of Playa del Carmen.
3. Sign up for the PADI Bull Shark Diving in Playa del Carmen Distinctive Specialty to enhance your experience.
4. Contact us for guidance.

Learn more at: http://www.prodiveinternational.com

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work as a SCUBA Diving Instructor? Is it really as glamorous as they make it out to be? Do they get to live out their fantasies? Follow the author as he progresses from a beginner diver to the owner of his own diving company. As he “chases-the-sun,” he travels around the world, from Fiji and Australia in the east to Central America and the Caribbean in the west.

Share his experiences both above and below the sea’s surface:- Shark encounters, the beauty of colourful Nudibranchs, and the tranquility of majestic Manta Rays are all available. Investigate corals and other exotic organisms as part of marine conservation efforts in the Seychelles and Belize. Climb an erupting volcano and see long-forgotten Maya temples hidden beneath lush vegetation.

Marvel at Uluru, live on a remote desert island, and survive a burning ship as it slips beneath the waves. Experience the best, and the worst, of being a diving instructor…These and many more adventures await you in, “Gone Diving: My Adventures Above and Below the Waves.”“Gone Diving” is the third book in “The Memoir Series.”

Available At Amazon

Sea Shepherd has entered into a new agreement with Mexico’s Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources, the Secretariat of the Navy, the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection, the National Commission for Aquaculture and Fisheries, and the National Commission for Natural Protected Areas.

The agreement, signed by Sea Shepherd Conservation Society Chairman and President Pritam Singh on August 6, indicates that the organization will inform Mexico’s Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection and the Secretariat of the Navy about any abandoned gillnets located in the Zero Tolerance Area and the Vaquita Refuge. The nets will be recovered and delivered by Mexico’s National Commission for Aquaculture and Fisheries to protect the critically endangered vaquita porpoise. 

The vaquita is the world’s most endangered marine mammal and is endemic to a small region in Mexico’s Upper Gulf of California. Recent estimates suggest that only 10 of these animals remain. Sea Shepherd has been working alongside Mexican authorities since 2015, removing the illegal gillnets that threaten the survival of this species.

“This breakthrough agreement comes just in time for the 10 individual vaquita porpoises counting on the government and NGOs to come together to save them and their species,” said Pritam Singh. “Over the past six years, Sea Shepherd has proudly supported the conservation efforts of the government of Mexico through the removal of illegal nets. The signing of this new agreement will allow for Sea Shepherd ships to return to the Upper Gulf, giving the vaquita a fighting chance of survival. We are grateful for the government’s continued collaboration with us at this make-or-break moment.”

Gillnets are long, rectangular nets that can span several hundred feet in length and form invisible barriers under the water. Poachers set gillnets to catch totoaba, another critically endangered species whose swim bladders are in high demand on the Chinese black market for their unsubstantiated medicinal qualities. 

Vaquitas are approximately the same size as totoabas and frequently fall victim to these nets, which are also responsible for the deaths of whales, dolphins, sharks, and sea turtles.

Working in partnership with Mexican authorities, Sea Shepherd has removed over 1,000 gillnets from the federally protected and UNESCO-recognized Vaquita Refuge to date, directly saving the lives of over 4,000 animals.

Sea Shepherd will return to the Upper Gulf in the fall of 2021 to resume front-line operations to prevent the extinction of the vaquita.

Learn more about Sea Shepherd at: https://seashepherd.org

Join us for an online celebration of sharks to raise awareness of the importance of elasmobranchs in our marine ecosystem, coinciding with the arrival of white sharks to the San Francisco area to feed on our abundant seal and sea lion populations.

Tune in for fun and educational activities for adults and kids, shark art, shark science, shark films, shark conservation, and lots of great ukulele tunes! Free event. Gift with optional registration

Learn more and register at: https://farallones.org/sharktoberfest

Sharks4Kids are excited to share our newest FREE educational packet. We’ve teamed up with artist Sharktopia to bring shark science to life for your classroom or home learning space.  This interactive and engaging packet allows students to do a scientific workup, collect data, create their own shark tag and much more. 

See and learn about the tags scientists use to study sharks on our new resource page. 

Download a PDF copy at: https://dive.im/2Wj81Hi or learn more about Sharks4Kids at: http://sharks4kids.com

Alarmingly, 71% of the world’s shark population has declined over the years. What’s more is that out of the 520 shark species in the world, a quarter of them are endangered!

These figures are shocking, considering how crucial sharks are to our ecosystem and our economy.
When visiting the deep blue waters, keep in mind that you may be entering the sharks’ territory and hence, cause minimal disruption to the natural environment. 

Unprovoked shark attacks are quite rare. An estimated 100 such attacks occur every year while only around 10 people die from shark attacks annually. The majority are not scuba divers;swimmers and surfers are attacked more often. The fear of shark attacks must not deter you from the sea but rather make you dive responsibly and cautiously. In the diving community, this a skill that’s taught. PADI advanced open water divers are trained to fare the seas prudently.

If you’re interested in scuba diving in Aqaba, sign up for our PADI dive courses to be certified. Alongside our beginner and advanced courses, PADI also offers an e-learning course for you to start at home and finish abroad!

At Deep Blue Dive Center, we believe that shark conservation must be a global goal. Here’s why they’re crucial:

Sharks and the Ecosystem

Sharks are apex predators that stand at the top of the food chain. Scientists recognize that removing even one player in the ecosystem leads the next to flourish disproportionately, wreaking havoc in the sea.

The removal of sharks will lead to a decline in coral reefs and seagrass beds and eventually collapse the business of fisheries. As a result, an abundance of algae will ensue, destroying the coral reefs and thereby destroying several other species.

Sharks and the Economy

Coastal economies are largely dependent on the proper functioning of the marine ecosystem. Any disruption can destroy the commercial fisheries.

Research suggests that the global economic value of shark tourism amounts to USD 314 million per year and sustains around 10,000 jobs. As the world faces an already existing crisis during COVID-19, the world can’t afford to see another.

In addition, shark diving is a popular sport among PADI-certified divers. Given that recreational scuba diving and snorkeling contribute around $11 million to the GDP of the United States, and around $20 to $20 billion world-wide. it’s vital to the economy.

What You Can Do

Here’s a checklist to follow so that you can positively contribute to the conservation of sharks:

• While scuba diving, choose a shark-friendly and responsible dive center like ours at Deep Blue Dive Center in Aqaba
• Steer clear of the waters during shark hunting times at dawn and dusk
• Stay near the reef wall and sea bed and try to blend in
• Stay alert and aware of all times
• Never disturb a shark on purpose.
• Get an advanced diver certification.

Learn more about Deep Blue Dive Center at:

Need some inspiration on what to do with the kids this summer holiday? Got shark-mad people at home that are eager for activities and challenges? Grab an activity bundle this summer and have fun as you learn about some of the ocean’s most iconic animals – Sharks and Rays! 

The Shark Trust has partnered with national award-winning outdoor education provider – The Great Out-tours – to produce an exciting range of educational resources. With sharks and rays as the inspiration. From beachcombing to craft challenges, these bundles of fun will provide hours of guided learning for children and adults alike. 

Transport your children / adults in care settings, to the magical kingdom of these deep ocean dwellers! These bundles will ignite a spirit of curiosity, exploration and inspiration, to learn about & protect the sharks of our seas.

“We are delighted to be working in close partnership with Shark Trust, to help safeguard the future of sharks & rays, through education. We have produced illuminating shark and ray themed activity bundles, designed to fill your families with wild fun and learning, both outdoors and in! We think you’ll really enjoy yourselves making, doing & foraging, whilst helping the conservation efforts for these amazing creatures?

My personal passion for sharks and rays, drives our focus within the activity bundles, to create positive learning about these fantastic fish, and provide ideas for you to get everyone out, about and connected with the ocean! Within the activities, we highlight the crucial role sharks and rays play in marine ecosystems and think you/your children will be inspired to want to protect them and safeguard their future’s!” John Brooksbank, Founder of The Great Out-tours

Learning about sharks and rays is a great way to get everyone connected with the ocean. You can have fun as you learn, either at home, down the park, or on the beach. The activity bundles give families the opportunity to partake in a shared experience, working together to complete the tasks and activities, learning about amazing sharks along the way.

“We know there’s an appetite for more good quality shark-themed activities. Partnering with The Great Out-tours has been a great way for us to provide our supporters and shark fans with fun and exciting new ways to discover and connect with sharks and rays.” Paul Cox, MD, Shark Trust

Packed with things to do both when the sun is shining or if you are stuck indoors on a rainy day, the activity bundles have something to get your teeth into, including crafting, puzzles, educational videos, and outdoor fun at the beach or in the garden.

“Everything was so easy to follow and with resources available to download, it meant that you could quite easily get on with things. Even my 2-year-old got involved with the activities!

The boys also really enjoyed the online jigsaw puzzles and word searches associated with each activity. Actually, I think Mummy rather enjoyed those too!”Laura, Parent of four boys of varying primary ages

Shark Bundle Information

SHARKS & RAYS BUNDLE (Priced at £3.50):

The Sharks and Rays bundle contains 4 themes each with a range of activities and resources. Each theme ends with a family quiz and completion of the bundle qualifies you for a reward.

Jaw dropping fun!

• Using sharks and rays as the inspiration, they’ve crammed this bundle full of fun educational activities, targeted at primary/secondary children and adults in care and domestic home settings.
• At home, in the garden, on a walk, in the park, or on the beach: From beachcombing to craft challenges, these resources will provide hours of guided learning. As well as mental/physical and social enrichment for children and adults.
• Tasty treats: 4 main shark and ray ‘headline’ themes are supported with a tasty suite of activities that include age specific wordsearches, puzzles, ‘eye-opening’ educational video clips and a wildly fun family/care home quiz challenge!
• Fintastic Learning! Each activity has curriculum and life enrichment linkage with risk-assessed educational resources.
• Rays the roof! Complete your sharks and rays bundle and receive a certificate/reward. The Great Out-tours and Shark Trust would love you to picture share your crafting creations!
• Bitesize budget? The Sharks and Rays bundle costs £3.50, with a 50p donation from each registration going to the Shark Trust.

Click on the link below to sign up for and buy the Sharks and Rays Bundle:

https://thegreatout-tours.com/product/sharks-and-rays-bundle/

Mini Shark Bundles (Priced at £1)

Great Egg-Case Hunt

Join us on a magical adventure, as we explore the exciting world of egg-laying sharks and skates. You’ll be heading to the beach for a spot of field-work and finding out what you can do to help protect these incredible animals…

Click on the link below to sign up for and buy The Great Eggcase Hunt bundle.

https://thegreatout-tours.com/product/the-great-eggcase-hunt-bundle/

Thresher Sharks

Discover the super agile, fish-herding, thresher sharks. Made up of 3 different species. With a tail like a whip to stun prey, thresher sharks can stir up dinner at lightning speed!

Click on the link below to sign up for and buy the Thresher Shark bundle.

https://thegreatout-tours.com/product/thresher-shark-bundle/

For more information about the work of the Shark Trust: https://www.sharktrust.org/

For more information about The Great Out-tours: https://thegreatout-tours.com/

Whether you love sharks or not, there is no denying these incredible animals are awesome! Gather your family, test your knowledge, have some fun and find out where you can go diving with sharks. Read on to find out more.

There are over 500 species of sharks.

Add rays to that list, which are closely related to sharks, and there are more than 1,000 species of sharks and rays in our oceans!

The largest species of shark grows up to 18 meters long.

Whale sharks are the largest species of shark and can grow up to 18 meters (60 feet) long. The next largest shark species include basking sharks, megamouth sharks, tiger sharks and great white sharks.

The smallest shark species is smaller than a human hand!

The dwarf lantern shark is the smallest shark and can fit in the palm of your hand. These tiny sharks are rarely seen, live in the deep ocean and grow to a maximum length of 8 inches.

Sharks are vital for healthy oceans.

Sharks play a vital role in keeping our oceans healthy. They do this by preying on sick and old marine life, which helps to prevent the spread of disease and improving the gene pool.

They also help make oceans more resilient to climate change and their poop brings crucial nutrients up to the surface of the oceans – which helps phytoplankton grow. Why does phytoplankton matter? It produces the oxygen that we breathe!

Some sharks get through more than 20,000 teeth in their lifetimes.

Great white sharks have around five rows of teeth and may have up to 300 teeth at any one time! These teeth are continually replaced, and great white sharks can get through more than 20,000 teeth in their lifetimes.

Some sharks glow in the dark.

Researchers recently discovered three species of shark off New Zealand that glow in the dark. These deep-sea sharks’ bioluminescence is thought to help them find food, attract a mate and hide from predators below – by blending in with the pale light above.

Sharks can travel thousands of miles each year.

Some shark species are highly migratory and make long migrations each year between different feeding grounds. The longest recorded whale shark migration was a staggering 12,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean, from near Panama to an area by the Philippines.

Sharks are found in almost every ocean habitat.

Sharks can be found at tropical coral reefs, in the deep dark ocean, in the open ocean and even under Arctic ice.

You can swim with sharks at destinations around the world.

There are numerous countries where you can go swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, cage diving and freediving with sharks. Whether you want to encounter big iconic sharks, such as tiger sharks and great whites, or hang out with laid-back nurse and reef sharks, there is a shark diving destination for you.

Some sharks are warm blooded, just like us.

While most sharks are cold blooded, there are 5 species that are partially warm blooded: great white sharks, shortfin makos, longfin makos, porbeagles and salmon sharks. These sharks can raise their temperature above the water temperature, which helps them move faster when hunting.

Sharks have different personalities, just like us.

If you have spent a lot of time diving with sharks, you will have no doubt realized sharks have different personalities. Research has shown that some are confident and social, whilst others are more solitary and cautious. According to Australian research, some sharks are also shy and others do not handle stress well at all.

Sharks support our wellbeing.

Many divers list diving with sharks at the top of their wish list and rightly so! Encountering sharks when you are diving is magical and the highlight of any dive trip. As well as supporting our wellbeing by keeping the oceans healthy, sharks simply make our dives better!

Sharks have 2 more senses than humans.

As well as having the same 5 senses as humans (smell, taste, touch, eyesight and hearing), sharks have 2 additional senses. They can detect pressure changes in the water with their lateral line (a row of pores running all the way from snout to tail), which helps them hunt, hide from predators and navigate.

They also have an electroreception system, consisting of receptors (called ampullae of Lorenzini) on their head and snout. These amazing receptors can detect even the tiniest electrical field, such as those generated by muscle contractions in prey.

Sharks have existed in our oceans since before the dinosaurs

Sharks have been around in the oceans for over 400 million years! Sevengill sharks (also called cow sharks) are some of the most primitive sharks still alive today and first appeared in our oceans over 150 million years ago.

You can go diving with these curious sharks in South Africa’s Western Cape.

Are sharks man-eaters? No, they rarely attack humans.

According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), there were 57 unprovoked shark bites on humans worldwide in 2020, of which 10 were fatal.

There are some fascinating ISAF facts about shark attack risk compared to other risks such as lightning strikes, sand holes, bear attacks and home improvement equipment. All of which demonstrates how infrequently humans are bitten by sharks.

Sharks can live for more than 400 years.

Scientists found a Greenland shark that is around 400 years old, making it the longest-living vertebrate known to man. These enormous sharks are blind, incredibly slow swimmers and have a lifespan of approximately 250 to 510 years.

Around 100 million sharks are killed globally each year.

This is not a fun fact, but it is an important one to highlight. Around 100 million sharks are killed each year, mostly for the shark fin trade. Sharks are also killed for their meat and liver oil, and many are accidentally caught in fishing gear.

Three hundred species of sharks and rays are threatened with extinction.

Sharks and rays are disappearing from the oceans at an alarming rate, with oceanic shark and ray populations having declined by 71 per cent in the last fifty years. In total, more than 300 shark and ray species are now threatened with extinction.

But….it is not too late to save sharks!

People are working hard around the world to save sharks and you can be part of the solution too! Here is what can you do to help protect sharks:

• Educate yourself and your friends about why sharks matter – sharing this article on social media is a great start.
• Support shark conservation organizations.
• Minimize your plastic use.
• Avoid products containing shark ingredients, such as shark liver oil, shark cartilage and shark squalene.
• Be a responsible diver by joining the SSI Blue Oceans movement.
• Only consume sustainable seafood. There are sustainable seafood guides for many different countries online and they are very easy to use:

• WWF worldwide seafood guides
• United States
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• New Zealand

Learn more with SSI at: http://www.divessi.com

Support the recent Wildlife (Amendment No.1) Bill 2021 to amend Section 23 of the Wildlife Act to include the Basking Shark, in the Fifth Schedule of the Act. This will give Basking Sharks legal protection in Irish waters.

Why is this important?

Basking sharks are endangered in the Northeast Atlantic and global population estimates indicate that the west and northern Irish seaboard are part of the single most internationally important coastal region for this species. Basking sharks occupy inshore and offshore areas year-round in Irish territorial waters. Ireland and our coastal communities have historically benefited from basking shark fisheries and today we have a duty to provide protection for this highly mobile species when they occupy Irish territorial waters. Recent research indicated that the Irish public supports the protection of basking sharks in Irish waters (Gray, 2019). Adding the species to Schedule Five of the Wildlife Act, (1976) as amended, is the simplest method to provide protection for the species in Irish territorial waters.

Sign the petition at: https://my.uplift.ie/petitions/

This November, a new National Geographic book titled “National Geographic Ocean: A Global Odyssey,” written by Dr. Sylvia Earle, will be released.

In this vividly illustrated overview of the life force that defines and maintains our planet, written by world-renowned oceanographer Sylvia Earle, learn about the world’s ocean—from tides and currents to the creatures that live there to the impact it has on our lives, whether we realize it or not.

Inside these stunning and lively pages, you’ll find everything you need to know about the ocean. The strength and significance of our planet’s aquatic essence are revealed in National Geographic Ocean: the ocean’s fundamental relevance in influencing Earth’s temperature and chemistry, as well as its crucial function in maintaining a diverse range of life-forms, including our own human race.

Sylvia Earle, a world-renowned oceanographer and National Geographic Explorer in Residence, leads readers through the evolution, beauty, and impact of our ocean, as well as the challenges it faces, such as climate change, plastic, and overfishing, and the many ways we can help protect it, with her lyrical style and inspiring wisdom.

This comprehensive reference covers everything from plate tectonics to seawater composition, as well as a fantastic illustrated guide to marine life, including sponges, kelp, and zooplankton, as well as whales, sharks, and sea turtles. Dr. Earle’s authoritative text is enhanced with more than 100 maps and graphics, including seabed and political maps of all Earth’s seas and oceans.

This comprehensive reference includes a superb illustrated introduction to marine life, including sponges, kelp, and zooplankton, as well as whales, sharks, and sea turtles, and covers everything from plate tectonics to seawater composition. More than 100 maps and visuals, including seabed and political maps of all of the world’s seas and oceans, complement Dr. Earle’s authoritative narrative.

Available for pre-ordering from Amazon

She loves what we fear. Start streaming Playing With Sharks from @NatGeo, an Original Documentary, July 23 on @DisneyPlus

Related: Book: Valerie Taylor – Trailblazing Ocean Conservationist, Photographer and Shark Expert

Valerie Taylor is a living legend and icon in the underwater world. A glamorous shark hunter in the 1950s, she was a champion slayer with ruthless aim before a personal epiphany transformed her into a passionate marine conservationist.

Just 30 years ago, dense, swirling schools of hammerheads and giant manta rays made the Sea of Cortés – El Golfo de California – a global diving mecca, and created the city of La Paz’ flourishing tourism economy. But in the 1990s, indiscriminate issuance of shark fishing permits allowed multinational fleets to “strip mine” them in critical habitats, including nurseries. This triggered a cascade of collapse among shark populations, so local fisheries and tourism plummeted. But today, scientists and fishermen work closely together to restore and protect this priceless marine ecosystem.

Learn more and join the Live Stream at: https://dive.im/3zbivXq

11,000 sharks are killed every hour worldwide!

The urgent predicament of sharks around the world is brought to light in a striking new documentary from director Eli Roth and executive producers Leonardo DiCaprio and Nina Dobrev. Beginning July 13, “Fin,” which highlights the work of acclaimed photographer Michael Muller, will be accessible for streaming on Discovery+ as part of Discovery’s Shark Week programming. Exclusive footage from Sea Shepherd’s campaigns battling illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in West Africa is included in the film, which exposes the criminal industry underlying the catastrophic extinction of sharks.

“Eli Roth is a master of the horror movie genre, so it’s fitting that he directed the deepest dive into the wholesale slaughter of sharks to be seen on screen since Sharkwater,” “In Liberia, he accompanied the Liberian Coast Guard and Sea Shepherd crew aboard Labiko 2, a floating abattoir that was arrested after illegally killing over half a million sharks annually.”

Peter Hammarstedt, Sea Shepherd’s Director of Campaigns

Every year, illegal and unsustainable fishing activities kill about 100 million sharks. Due to the high demand for shark fins in Asia, populations are dropping faster than they can recover. These 450 million-year-old creatures are also prone to entanglement in commercial fishing nets, where they are often caught and killed as bycatch.

Sharks are apex predators that play a crucial role in the health of ocean ecosystems. All other species, from giant cetaceans to coral reefs, are in jeopardy as shark populations continue to plummet around the planet.

The creators believe that this video will assist increase public awareness about the present conservation problem that sharks are experiencing as the US Congress prepares to vote on a bill that proposes a ban on the purchase and sale of shark fins within the country.

Learn more at: www.finthemovie.com

Despite the science, shark tournaments are scheduled on the east coast of the USA. At these tournaments, the sharks are fished for prize money and bragging rights. Fishermen participating in these tournaments catch and kill sharks regardless of size, and often times catch sizes that are protected, but the fishermen bring them in any way.

The tournaments are seeing fewer and fewer sharks, not by choice; taking the biggest sharks out of the ecosystem does not allow them to reproduce. Sharks need total protection to build up their populations. It is unacceptable to hunt and kill these sharks.

We urge all our members to New York and Massachusetts to boycott tournament sponsors and the following tournaments:

North Atlantic Monster Shark Tournament from June 22 to 25 at West Island Marina, Fairhaven, Maine

51st Annual Shark Tournament from June 24 to 26 at the Montauk Marine Basin, Montauk, NY.

Reproduced from Shark Research Institute Newsletter

Shark Fin Win!

On May 10, 2021, the culmination of years of lobbying by Bite-Back Shark & Marine Conservation, a significant shake-up of UK shark fin trade laws became a reality.

The official news that the government is set to ban the import and export of shark fins erupted in celebratory cheers at Bite-Back HQ. From the moment Bite-Back Shark & Marine Conservation first revealed the loophole in the law that allowed anyone to carry 20kg of shark fins into our borders, to the series of behind-the-scenes meetings with Lord Zac Goldsmith and DEFRA, the announcement is the culmination of six years of hard work by the team.

Bite-Back thanks all of you for your continued support and trust in us to successfully advocate for sharks and the marine environment.

About Bite-Back

The charity Bite-Back Shark & Marine Conservation protects the high waters on the high street. By 2048, overfishing and overconsumption could wipe out many shark species. We’re here to make sure it doesn’t happen, and we’re working with our supporters to do so.

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The International Diving Safety Commission (IDSSC) supports Mr. Jerry Taggart’s “Shark Chumming Project” flag project.

“A chumming flag is a flag that informs others that a boat is actively chumming/baiting the water with either live bait cut bait or ground bait to attract/lure and hold fish near the fishing boat.”

“A Chumming flag is recommended when targeting sharks to indicate that caution should be used when entering the water. Be advised chumming may not be allowed in all waters. For more information check your local government regulations. This flag was established in March 1997. The colour yellow and blue was chosen as it is the same colour as the nautical flag steer clear. The pictographic diagonal pattern upper left to lower right is easy to understand and see at a distance. The design was chosen for its versatility so the image can be customized.”

Jerry Taggert

Article submitted by Jerry Taggert

Learn more at: https://www.chummingflag.com

We are excited to announce our JAWsome webinars for May!

Hope you can DIVE IN with us!

Click the link below or visit https://www.sharks4kids.com/webinars for information on speakers, age-range and the links to join. You must have the FREE version of Zoom to watch.

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel to Watch Recorded Lessons (80+ different lessons from 2020/21)

May 2021 ( EST-FL/NY)

Wed May 5, 3:15 pm EST :: Coastal Ecosystems: Restoration for Our Future with Jewel Beneby

(ALL AGES) 

Thurs  May 6, 7 pm EST: Food provisioning of rays and sharks with Joni Pini-Fitzsimmons (AGES 13+)

Tues May 11, 3 pm EST: The Ocean, Sharks and You with Ashlan Cousteau (AGES 9-14)

Tues  May 18, 10 am EST: Exploring the Hidden Depths of the Caribbean Sea with Dr. Diva Amon (ALL AGES) 

Tues May 25, 10 am EST: The world’s largest fish: the whale shark with Gonzalo Araujo (AGES 9-14) 

Make sure to also check out our FREE activities, crafts, lesson plans and more. Many go along with these webinars. We are continuing to add new resources each week, so stay tuned!

ACTIVITIES

CRAFTS

COLORING SHEETS

LESSON PLANS

Learn more at: https://www.sharks4kids.com/