Marine Wildlife

Marine Wildlife: Basking Shark UK Feeding Season

Basking sharks gather in UK coastal waters each summer to feed on plankton, and their welfare is affected by boat disturbance and entanglement risk.

Key Facts

Basking sharks are the world's second-largest fish, reaching up to 12 metres in length
UK waters are globally important feeding habitat, particularly around the Scottish and Cornish coasts
Basking sharks feed by slow surface swimming with mouth open for up to 7 hours per day
Disturbance by boats and jet skis interrupts feeding and causes sharks to dive
Basking sharks are fully protected in UK waters under the Wildlife and Countryside Act

Welfare Considerations

Basking sharks require undisturbed surface feeding to maintain body condition during the productive summer months. Repeated disturbance by recreational vessels disrupts feeding efficiency and causes energy expenditure through diving. Responsible watching guidelines that maintain minimum distances of 100 metres enable wildlife tourism while protecting the welfare of these protected animals.

What You Can Do

Maintain 100 metre distance from basking sharks when on the water
Report sightings to the Marine Conservation Society basking shark project
Do not circle or approach basking sharks at speed
Choose wildlife watching operators that follow basking shark codes of conduct
Support campaigns for better marine wildlife disturbance regulations