A rare concentration of basking sharks have been observed in Donegal Bay in recent days.
Donegal Bay Conservation Trust said dozens of basking sharks have been spotted off Mullaghmore Head and surrounding coastal waters.
The basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus) is the second largest fish in the world, growing to lengths of more than 10 metres.
Despite their immense size, basking sharks are gentle filter feeders, feeding primarily on plankton-rich waters.
Ireland hosts some of the most important seasonal basking shark habitat in Europe, with the species regularly recorded along the Atlantic coastline.
Particularly notable during this recent period has been the observation of multiple basking sharks feeding close to shore, travelling in groups by the dozen, and on several occasions breaching clear of the water.
While the exact reason for breaching behaviour remains uncertain, scientists believe it may play a role in communication, parasite removal, or other social behaviours.
Such displays are rarely witnessed and provide a remarkable insight into the lives of one of Ireland’s most iconic marine species.
Donegal Bay Trust Ambassador and wildlife photographer Gary McCall has documented much of the recent activity through a series of photographs and videos captured around Mullaghmore Head.
Another of Gary McCall’s photos of the basking sharks.
Gary said: “I love capturing the abundance of marine life in the bay but I have never seen such a large group of sharks so close in around the headland together. It made for remarkable viewing and footage.”
Mark O’Connor, Co-Founder of Donegal Bay Trust, said: “The recent presence of basking sharks around Mullaghmore Head is a wonderful reminder of the richness and importance of Donegal Bay’s marine environment.
“Encounters with these incredible animals, the second largest fish species on Earth, provide a unique opportunity for people to observe and enjoy wildlife on their own doorstep while developing a deeper appreciation for our shared natural heritage.
“Every sighting recorded through the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group helps build a stronger evidence base for marine conservation and contributes to our understanding of these magnificent animals, and the significance of Donegal Bay.”
Basking Shark Facts
- The basking shark is the second largest fish species in the world.
- Individuals can exceed 10 metres in length.
- Basking sharks are harmless filter feeders that feed primarily on plankton.
- Irish waters are internationally important habitat for the species.
- Breaching behaviour, where sharks leap partially or fully clear of the water, is occasionally observed but remains poorly understood by science.
- Basking sharks are a protected species in Irish waters.