MAY 2010

Basking Sharks Spotted off the North West Coast

The Inishowen-based Irish Basking Shark Project has confirmed that the biggest fish in the ocean has returned to our coastal waters in huge numbers this year.

Early reports from fishermen and the shark research team indicates that the gigantic shark which can grow up to 10m in length, can now be seen feeding off headlands and islands around the North West Coast.

The team of shark researchers will be out on the water again this year studying the shark, which is one of Ireland's most elusive marine species. Northerly winds over the past number of weeks have meant sea conditions have not been favourable for surveying but they are determined to investigate the shark's behaviour regardless.

Emmett Johnston (Inishowen Wildlife Researcher) who co-ordinates the project reported sighting over ten sharks off Dunaff Head, Urris during the week and said he believes the weather has turned for the better.

This season the team are working with Queens University and GMIT in the development of prototype depth and satellite tags, which they plan to deploy on the sharks and discover the shark's habits when underwater and out of view. They will also be working with a BBC television crew and Monty Halls who has taken and interest in the project and wants to feature it on his show.

They are appealing to everyone who sees a shark to report it and help them concentrate their efforts on the water. Emmett Johnston said: "We can't be everywhere at once and last year fishermen and beach goers were just fantastic with their reports. It saves us a lot of petrol if we know where to go in the boat. It also gives us a great idea on how many sharks are out there at any one time".

If you see a Basking Shark please report it online at www.baskingshark.ie or phone or text Emmett on 087 286 055.

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