Great White Sharks Could Be Heading to UK Waters, Experts Say
Great white sharks, often regarded as one of the most feared animals worldwide, could potentially make their way to UK waters in the near future, according to marine experts at Ocearch. Tracking investigations have revealed an increasing trend of these creatures swimming north, with regular sightings along the United States’ New England coast. While some experts support this theory, others remain skeptical about the presence of these apex predators in British waters. However, historical records and recent shark discoveries suggest that great whites have already been sporadically spotted around the UK coastline.
The Rising Presence of Great White Sharks
Until the 1970s, Cape Cod in Massachusetts had few great white sharks. However, over the past 50 years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of great whites near the shores of this area. Marine experts attribute this rise to the migration of seals, a primary food source for great whites. Efforts by the US Government to protect seals inadvertently contributed to their population growth, thereby attracting great white sharks to these regions.
The Ocearch research team, renowned for tracking marine species, plans to visit the UK next summer to locate great white sharks. Chris Fischer, the founder of Ocearch, believes that these predators should be moving past Brest in Brittany, France, and potentially reaching Cornwall. However, marine biologist Gregory Skomal holds a contrasting view, stating that no confirmed sightings of white sharks have occurred in Cornwall. Nevertheless, the University of Plymouth’s records document nearly 100 credible but unconfirmed sightings of great whites around the UK since 1965.
Migration and Climate Change
Great white sharks are typically found in the coastal regions of California, Hawaii, the Gulf of Mexico, Australia, and South Africa. Known for their ability to swim long distances in search of food, these predators possess an extraordinary sense of smell, enabling them to detect a drop of blood amidst one million drops of water. Some scientists have previously warned that climate change, leading to rising ocean temperatures, could compel the species to migrate, potentially bringing them to the UK coastline by 2050.
Rare Shark Discoveries in UK Waters
Recent discoveries in the UK have captured the attention of marine biologists. In March, the first shark corpse was found in Hampshire, followed by the discovery of a rare smalltooth tiger shark in Wexford, Ireland, in April. Experts speculate that these species, which were previously rarely seen in British waters, may be establishing the UK as their full-time home. These findings have prompted scientific interest and investigations into the cause of these occurrences and the well-being of these shark populations.
Future Concerns
The smalltooth sand tiger shark, discovered in Ireland, is currently assessed as “vulnerable” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. While not considered aggressive towards humans, these sharks may face threats such as bycatch and pollution. Marine biologists and conservationists are eager to understand why these sharks have appeared in the region and what led to their mortality. Concerns arise from the proximity and frequency of these shark sightings, indicating the need for continued research and monitoring.
The potential presence of great white sharks in UK waters has sparked both fascination and concern among experts. While there is ongoing debate surrounding the arrival of these apex predators, historical records and recent discoveries indicate that they have been sporadically encountered in the region. As researchers delve further into this topic, it is essential to balance curiosity with conservation efforts to ensure the long-term protection of these iconic marine species.
