Yesterday, June 6th a 5 metre whale shark (Rhincodon typus) was caught in Hong Kong waters by a stern trawler.
The beautiful and gentle whale shark. Photo from Donsol, Philippines
The whale shark a harmless, plankton feeder grows upto a maximum of 18 metres, is a vunerable species (click for more information) that is in decline. The caught animal was released by the fisherman after discussions with the AFCD and Ocean Park. This is welcome news.
However the strangest thing was that in response to the find of this gentle giant, the LCSD has closed two beaches and raised shark flags at all ten beaches on the south side of Hong Kong island. This is completely unnecessary and creates fear amongst the Hong Kong population.
Living Seas Hong Kong believes
- LCSD staff need to be properly trained about when it is necessary to raise alarms and close beaches. The current approach creates fear and contributes to unnecessary vilification of sharks amongst the general population.
- Trawlers catch everything, wanted or not and should not be operating so close to Hong Kong ‘s coastline. Severe restrictions need to be put into place about the number of trawlers allowed and where they can operate.
Government press releases can be found
We just hope that this shark avoids other nets and survives to maturity.