Heralded as a hotspot for Basking Shark sightings, the Southwest was historically a key region for spotting this giant of a shark. However, over the last 10 years, we’ve seen an apparent decrease in the number of reports of sightings of Basking Sharks in the Southwest. But is this due to the sharks not being there, or that sightings are not being reported? With the media regularly reporting on the global biodiversity crisis, and with a Youth for Nature Report finding many people are feeling hopeless and becoming disengaged with nature – we want to offer a way of positively engaging. There is HOPE FOR THE FUTURE!

How can we solve this particular Basking Shark mystery? Simply we need more eyes on the water, recording more possible sightings. Harnessing the potential of citizen science, we can discover if Basking Sharks are still swimming through the waters of the Southwest, and when, and possibly gain reports of other sharks and rays too! In taking part, you'll also learn more about the diversity of sharks in our seas and be immersed in the nature on our coasts!