We kick of this years shark week with an article about our favourite shark in these waters, the Hammer Head shark.
We decided to get stuck into the Discovery Channel's "Shark Week" this year with a week of features and articles around the island of Gran Canaria's shark locals on our site, and social media to celebrate these amazing animals. And to get us started, here is our favorite shark at GO DIVING (shouldn't be shocking, really).
Recently, here on our Canary Island, there have been sightings of baby hammerhead sharks on our Gran Canarian beaches, and we couldn't be more excited to talk about these incredible creatures. The local and international papers have been buzzing with reports, shedding light on this fascinating phenomenon. As a diving company, we believe it's essential to raise awareness about these animals and ignite a passion for diving with them. So, let's get stuck in and explore the captivating world of hammerhead sharks here on our island!
According to reports from elDiario.es, sharks have been making appearances close to beaches in Spain this summer. In a recent incident, the red flag was raised, and swimming was prohibited due to the presence of several sharks. What makes this even more interesting is that the species observed hasn't been spotted before.
The closure took place on the beach of Patalavaca in Mogán, here in Gran Canaria. It was discovered that two juvenile hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini) were hanging around, prompting authorities to restrict swimming beyond knee-height depth. Willy García, the alderman for beaches in the municipality of Mogán, assured the public that this measure was purely precautionary, aimed at ensuring the safety of both the sharks and humans. It's important to note that hammerhead sharks pose no threat to us.
While we are on the subject, let me remind you that hammerhead shark sightings are relatively common here along the Canarian coast, especially during the summer months. These amazing creatures are consummate predators, using their unique hammer-shaped heads to enhance their hunting abilities. Their eyes, positioned on the outer edges of the hammer, provide them with an incredible 360-degree vertical view, enabling them to effortlessly survey their surroundings above and below. With their wide eyes giving them a better visual range than most other sharks, they are highly efficient hunters. They are an amazing spectacle to see underwater, and we may have even caught a picture or two of them, like ghosts of the blue.
Fully grown hammerhead sharks can reach lengths of up to 20 feet and weigh a whopping 600 pounds
Fully grown hammerhead sharks can reach lengths of up to 20 feet and weigh a whopping 600 pounds, making them larger than many other shark species. Their bodies are designed for agility, allowing them to twist and bend with ease. These sharks typically live for around 25 to 35 years and prefer the warm, tropical waters along continental shelves and coastlines worldwide. Our species of local sharks are the Scalloped hammerhead (Sphyrna lewini) and Smooth hammerhead (Sphyrna zygaena) and don't grow as large.
While hammerhead sharks might have a fearsome reputation in popular culture, unprovoked attacks on humans are exceptionally rare. The International Shark Attack File has documented only 17 such incidents involving hammerhead sharks, and thankfully, no fatalities have ever been recorded. These sharks are generally peaceful creatures, and encounters with them can be awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
Just picture the recent footage captured near the beach—a couple of juvenile hammerhead sharks gracefully gliding through the shallow waters as beach visitors watched in pure amazement. Lifeguards promptly issued a red flag alert, and necessary restrictions were put in place to ensure everyone's safety. Thankfully, no one was harmed, and the sharks continued their peaceful journey. Local authorities have been closely monitoring the situation, prepared to take action if more sharks return to the area. Little did these onlookers know, that we divers enter into the shark's world quite often and even share space with them from time to time.
The Canary Islands are home to an impressive variety of sharks and rays. In fact, we have up to 86 different species documented here
The Canary Islands are home to an impressive variety of sharks and rays. In fact, we have up to 86 different species documented here, including the magnificent angel shark, sunray, and even the awe-inspiring whale shark. And let's not forget our regular encounters with various rays like butterfly, eagle, common, the majestic manta rays, and the famous angel shark.
Here at GO DIVING, we absolutely love the idea of having even more of these magnificent predators in our waters, though they remain a rare sighting for us divers. We wholeheartedly encourage everyone to embrace the wonders of marine life and get stuck in looking for them, and on our dive boat, we get out to spots others can't reach to see them. These experiences offer a unique perspective on these magnificent creatures and foster a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our oceans. So, if you're seeking an adventure that combines adrenaline and awe, come dive with us and perhaps catch a glimpse of a hammerhead shark as you explore the captivating world beneath the waves.
We love Hammer Head sharks so much that when we rebrand GO DIVING recently we even used our much loved shark species as inspiration for the new logo. so remember, the ocean is a vast playground, teeming with a myriad of fascinating creatures. By respecting their habitat, we can coexist and create lifelong memories. So, join us as we dive into the depths, immersing ourselves in the wonders that await beneath the surface. Let's make Shark Week a thrilling celebration of these remarkable creatures!
Stay tuned for more from this weeks shark week features.
Scott Finch
GO DIVING CO OWNER AND DIVING INSTRUTOR
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