The Great White Shark

Duunnn Dunnn… 
Duuuunnnn Duun… 
Duuunnnnnnnn Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun Dun Dunnnnnnnnnnn Dunnnn
We all know the ominous music and the haunting images of the Great White Shark, but what do we really know about these animals?

 Well for one thing we know that they are classified as vulnerable and need to be protected. Although many movies have been made about these creatures and many people have developed a fear for them, not much is known about their biology or their behavior. They grow to be about 16-20 and can weigh anywhere between 4 and 7 tons. There is estimate to be less than 3,500 of these gigantic creatures left and are found in cool coastal waters. 

 We do know that these amazing creatures are an integral part of the ocean ecosystem. As major predators they are an integral part of the food chain. They are rapidly disappearing because of over fishing and fall prey to by-catch. Many people try to fish these animals for sport and they are sort of like the ultimate fishing trophy. Having a set of Great White teeth or fins is sought as a great accomplishment. Also they often get caught into fishing nets and are accidentally captured when fishermen are trying to capture other fish.

 These creatures have held a special place in our culture as a daunting and fearsome creature that has been the star of many movies and stories. Not only do we rely on them for our scary bed time stories, but with the disappearance of these animals there would be a major change in the ecosystem and how the ocean food chain works. 

 Currently the WWF is supporting research and monitoring of Great White Sharks to and from the Gulf of California. Researchers are tagging these sharks and using satellite tracking to learn more about these animals. We know that they are migratory animals, but are unsure of exactly where all of the populations are. By using tagging and other geospatial tools conservationists are able to learn more about these creatures, so they can make better management plans for the future. 

 So how can you help?
1. Do not use shark products. (Example: Shark Fin Soup)
2. Reduce your consumption of seafood or be sure to buy from sustainable fisheries who use safe and appropriate fishing practices. Visit HERE to Learn More!
3. Reduce your trash and NEVER litter! Oftentimes this trash will end up in the oceans and will disturb the ecosystems where these sharks live.
4. Go diving with sharks! If people interact and are tourists around these areas, local governments are much more likely to make these areas a conservation area and protect it.
5. Learn more about sharks and share your knowledge with others. The best way to help sharks or any other species is to inform yourself and others in order to get the attention of the mass public. Visit HERE!


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