Reaching lengths of up to 11 metres, Basking Sharks are the largest fish in British waters. One of only three plankton-feeding shark species, these harmless giants reappear in our coastal waters each summer, with their presence often marked by their large dorsal fin. Breaching – or jumping clear of the water – is relatively common Basking Shark behaviour, which watchers are often lucky enough to see.

Disturbance and harassment
Today, one of the critical issues facing Basking Sharks is disturbance and harassment by water users. In the excitement of observing these magnificent creatures there are often reports of sharks being struck by boats or jet-ski’s, as well as being disturbed by swimmers and other water users.

The Shark Trust is hugely grateful for key support from Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium in producing 20,000 Basking Shark ‘Code of Conduct’ guides, distributed free throughout the UK and Ireland. As well as information on the species, the guide contains a Code of Conduct poster for water users which aims to ensure safe interaction between human and shark – safe for both humans and sharks! Whilst Basking Sharks are not normally referred to as dangerous, their sheer size and potential power makes them creatures to be treated with respect and caution.

Dr David Gibson, Managing Director of National Marine Aquarium said ‘You don’t need to get up close to these magnificent animals to appreciate their beauty. At this time of year The Hoe makes an excellent vantage point if you have a pair of binoculars and a bit of patience. Despite their size we still know very little about this enigmatic and secretive animal, we hope that by working with the Shark Trust we will gain important insights into this fascinating species.

We are totally supportive of this code as sea animals especially those in our native water deserve the utmost protection’

Numbers still declining
In the past Basking Sharks have been hunted mercilessly for their highly valuable fins which go to the Shark Fin trade. However, almost all Basking Shark fisheries have caused very rapid crashes in their populations. Despite current protection measures the global decline in numbers does not appear to have been reversed: the IUCN Redlist classifies Basking Sharks in the Northeast Atlantic as endangered, with numbers decreasing.