Shark Guardian UK Charity

South Australia has taken a landmark step in marine conservation by implementing a fishing ban on several endangered and critically endangered shark and ray species in its waters. Effective from December 16, 2024, this legislation marks a significant victory for marine biodiversity and sets a precedent for other regions to follow.

Shark Guardian reflects on a year filled with impactful projects, groundbreaking discoveries, and continued advocacy for shark conservation, education, Research and Expeditions. Here is a detailed summary of our key reports, activities, and achievements in 2024. Each summary includes a link to the full article for those who wish to dive deeper. https://lnkd.in/gi5UmkxR

New IUCN report shows a third of Sharks, Rays, and Chimaeras Threatened with Extinction: A Call for Action Sharks, rays, and chimaeras have long been essential to ocean ecosystems, playing critical roles in maintaining marine biodiversity. However, these ancient and vital species are facing an unprecedented crisis. According to the Global Status of Sharks, Rays, and Chimaeras report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), one-third of these species are now threatened with extinction. Compiled by 353 experts from 115 countries, this comprehensive report highlights the urgent need to address overfishing, bycatch, and inadequate conservation measures across the globe. https://lnkd.in/gBgaXv_5

Learn the answers to these important questions related to shark conservation. 1. Why are sharks important? 2. How many sharks are killed each year? 3. How many sharks are threatened or endangered? 4. Why are sharks being killed? 5. Are sharks protected by international law? 6. Where are shark sanctuaries and marine protected areas located? https://lnkd.in/gD8c_nKN

Say NO to Longline Fishing in the Maldives! 🌊 This harmful fishing technique threatens sharks, manta rays, birds, and more. We need your support to keep the Maldives a global shark sanctuary and protect marine biodiversity. Sharks bring in over $54 million annually through tourism, and their decline could have devastating effects. Help us preserve our oceans—sign the petition now! Every signature counts. SIGN THE PETITION: https://lnkd.in/eqQEHac8 #ProtectSharks #SaveOurOceans #MarineConservation #Maldives #SharkSanctuary #NoToLonglining #OceanProtection #BlueEconomy #SustainableFishing https://lnkd.in/gqVhPEvb

A recent survey by WildAid reveals a promising trend: Thailand’s shark fin consumption has declined by 34% over the past six years, translating to an estimated 8.1 million fewer servings of shark fin annually. This decline is indicative of successful awareness campaigns and changing attitudes towards shark fin consumption. However, demand remains significant, with more than half (56%) of urban Thais still expressing a desire to try shark fin, highlighting the ongoing challenges in shark conservation efforts. https://lnkd.in/gfSE_AGd

Real Shark Awareness: A Deep Dive into Coexisting with Sharks Happy Shark Awareness Day! 🦈 Real shark awareness goes beyond acknowledging sharks' existence; it involves understanding their behaviors, habitats, and crucial roles in marine ecosystems. It's about educating coastal communities to coexist harmoniously with these magnificent creatures. Brendon Sing’s Journey and Shark Guardian Brendon Sing, founder of Shark Guardian, has dedicated his life to shark conservation. Growing up in South Africa, Brendon developed a deep respect and understanding of sharks. This inspired him and his partner, Elizabeth Ward-Sing, to establish Shark Guardian, a UK charity focused on global shark and marine conservation. Shark Education in South Africa In South Africa, shark education is deeply embedded in coastal communities, covering: 1. Understanding Shark Habitats: Identifying habitats like kelp forests and coral reefs, and understanding migration patterns. 2. Timing and Safety Measures: Knowing optimal and risky times for water activities. 3. Behavioral Understanding: Learning about feeding and breeding behaviors. 4. Coexisting with Sharks: Promoting respect for sharks and conservation efforts. Practical Measures for Shark Safety 1. Public Awareness Campaigns: Regular educational campaigns. 2. Lifeguard Training: Specialized training for shark encounters. 3. Beach Signage: Informative signs and warning flags. 4. Shark Spotters: Programs like Shark Spotters in Cape Town. The Role of Shark Guardian Under Brendon Sing’s leadership, Shark Guardian extends education globally through school programs, public talks, workshops, and supporting research projects. Join us in celebrating Shark Awareness Day and support our mission to protect these vital creatures! 🌊🦈 #SharkAwareness #SharkConservation #OceanEducation #MarineLife #SaveOurSharks #SharkGuardian #MarineConservation #ProtectOurOceans #SharkWeek #OceanConservation #SharkDiving #SharkEducation #SharksAreVital #SouthAfrica #DivingCommunity #SharkLover #WildlifeConservation #MarineBiodiversity #CoexistWithSharks #EndangeredSpecies #OceanLife #MarineEcosystem #SharkProtection

Another heartbreaking loss to discarded fishing gear... Basking sharks, the second-largest fish in the world, can grow up to 45 feet (15.2 m). With a population in continuous decline, they are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. This particular shark became entangled in lines, with the gear caught in its mouth and around its tail. Tragically, it is believed to have died from exhaustion while trying to free itself. Each year, between 640,000 to 1 million tonnes of fishing gear are discarded or lost in the ocean. This debris creates the most dangerous type of pollution, continuing to kill marine life indefinitely. Follow 👉 @seaspiracy for more ocean news.⁠ #SaveOurOceans #MarineConservation #EndangeredSpecies #OceanPollution #BaskingShark #IUCNRedList #GhostFishing #PlasticPollution #SeaLife #ProtectOurPlanet

SWIM FOR SHARKS - Koh Tao, Thailnd 20-22 September 2024 Swim for Sharks is an annual fundraising event for shark conservation where monies raised is donated to Shark Guardian and their campaigns to protect sharks. Here is an update on venue locations, times and events during the Swim for Sharks event on Koh Tao 20-22 September 2024 The event will officially kick off with an event hosted by The Hacienda Bar & Restaurant on 20th September at 19:00 with Brendon presenting from Shark Guardian. We will also be taking Swim for Sharks registrations that evening. On the 21st September (main Swim for Sharks Event!) we will start at 09:00 at Big Blue Diving Koh Tao with Swim for Sharks registrations. We will then meet all swimmers at 11:30 to depart to the boat and head to Koh Nang Yuan at 12:00pm for the main swim event. This will be followed by the after party & Grand Raffle Prizes at 6pm (Location TBC). On the 22nd September Ban's Diving Resort (Official Fan Page), Koh Tao will host Kids Swim for sharks event at 15:00. Register for Swim for Sharks Register for Swim for Sharks by filling in the online form here: https://lnkd.in/gWJBXA7r Registration Donation Options Option 1: £20 (930 Thai Baht) includes swim registration, Swim for Sharks T-Shirt and an additional £4 donation for Shark Guardian Option 2: £16 (750 Thai Baht) includes swim registration and the Swim for Sharks T-Shirt Option 3: £12 (560 Thai Baht) Includes the Registration for the swim only

Hammerhead sharks, part of the Sphyrnidae family, are easily recognized by their unique T-shaped heads, known as cephalofoils. This distinctive structure provides enhanced sensory reception, superior binocular vision, and depth perception. Found in warmer coastal waters worldwide, hammerheads often swim in large schools by day and hunt solo by night. However, many hammerhead species are facing severe threats. Due to overfishing and the demand for their fins, several species are now endangered or critically endangered. It's crucial to raise awareness and take action to protect these fascinating creatures and their habitats. #HammerheadSharks #EndangeredSpecies #MarineLife #SharkConservation #SaveOurSharks #OceanCreatures #WildlifeWednesday #SharkFacts #Cephalofoil #OceanLife #UnderwaterWorld #SharkScience