Marine Animals

Basking Shark Conservation and Welfare

Basking sharks are the world's second largest fish and face significant threats from bycatch, boat strikes, and historical hunting.

Key Facts

Basking sharks were once commercially hunted in UK and Irish waters for their liver oil
They are now legally protected in UK waters under the Wildlife and Countryside Act
Bycatch in trawl and net fisheries remains a significant mortality cause
Basking sharks aggregate off UK coasts in summer to feed on zooplankton blooms
Satellite tagging has revealed complex migration routes including transatlantic crossings

Welfare Considerations

Basking sharks face multiple welfare threats from both past exploitation and current incidental capture. Improved bycatch monitoring and enforcement of legal protection are essential for their welfare and conservation.

What You Can Do

Report basking shark sightings to the Shark Trust's recording scheme
Advocate for stronger bycatch monitoring in fisheries where basking sharks occur
Support marine protected areas that encompass basking shark aggregation sites
Choose sustainably certified seafood from fisheries with low bycatch records
Engage with marine wildlife organisations working on elasmobranch conservation