Documenting Scotland's Shark Species
Sharks, Rays and Skates
Although they lay mostly below the radar, there are over 40 species of sharks documented in the British Isles. With 21 resident species and 11 deep water shark species, there is an incredible diversity of elasmobranchs living off our coasts. From the gigantic basking shark to the small glowing cat shark, each of them special, and many of them threatened. Understanding what species are in our waters is vital for ensuring their future, and that is where you can help. Whether you are a seasoned boater or strolling along the beach, you can help build a picture of Scotland's sharks rays and skates.
Citizen Scientist
You can help researchers by reporting your sightings of sharks, rays, skates and egg cases. Some shark species reproduce by laying eggs, and once they are hatched the empty egg cases can wash up on the shore. You may know these beach treasures as a mermaid's purse. Together with Shark & Skate Scotland, I am creating a visual ID guide of the species that can be found in Scottish waters, to accompany their new website where you will be able to submit your sightings. You can help fund this charity project by purchasing an original species artwork, commissioning a species that hasn't been completed yet, or donating towards this project.
