As we all know, shark populations are severely threatened, and this is mainly as a result of human activities. Conservation interventions are needed to assist with the stabilization of our shark populations. One such conservation strategy is the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). These areas are meant to safeguard ocean life, however, unfortunately, outdated shark nets and drumlines still exist, even within these valuable protection sites. These nets and drumlines achieve the exact opposite effect of what the MPAs are trying to achieve.
Shark nets and drumlines are outdated methods, which DO NOT discriminate – this means that they not only kill sharks, but also kill other marine animals such as turtles, rays, dolphins and other species, many of which are endangered!
A juvenile great white shark was recently tragically killed on one of the KwaZulu-Natal net and drumline systems. This event has again highlighted how indiscriminate these outdated mechanisms are. Every single loss of a slow-reproducing apex predator, such as great white shark, adds to the destabilization of the shark populations, and in turn, adds to the destabilization of the entire marine ecosystem.
Non-lethal alternatives do exist, and include drone surveillance, shark spotters, electric deterrent cables and eco barriers, as well as public education. These alternatives are effective in protecting bathers without harming marine life.
It is time to modernize shark safety. We CAN and we MUST protect BOTH OCEAN WILDLIFE and PEOPLE!
If you would like to join the petition to switch from outdated practices, to newer and better developed systems; please consider adding your name to the list at this link:
“Our” sharks need our help!
