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Massive Basking Shark Wows Tourists in Donegal
30 Apr
Summary
- A 35-foot basking shark was filmed near Ireland's west coast.
- Basking sharks are gentle giants, the world's second-largest fish.
- These endangered sharks are protected by law in the UK.
A colossal basking shark, estimated to be around 35 feet in length, was recently filmed off the coast of County Donegal, Ireland. The impressive creature was observed near Arranmore Island, engaging in its characteristic slow swimming and filter-feeding behavior.
These basking sharks are known as gentle giants and are the second-largest fish species worldwide, surpassed only by whale sharks. Historically present in the northeast Atlantic, they were heavily fished for their meat and oil throughout the 20th century, with the first recorded fishery dating back to 1746 in County Donegal.
Today, the basking shark is classified as endangered in the North Atlantic. Consequently, these animals are protected under several UK acts, making it illegal to harm or harass them. Offenders face significant fines and potential prison sentences, ensuring the conservation of these magnificent marine animals.
