Ireland Remains Key Habitat for Endangered Basking Sharks

Researchers from University College Dublin and the Irish Basking Shark Group analyzed 2,718 sightings between 1978 and 2024 and determined Ireland’s waters are a consistent seasonal refuge for the endangered basking shark. The study identified hotspots around the Blasket Islands, County Cork, and the Inishowen Peninsula where the sharks return annually, likely to feed on plankton during spring and summer.

The team found both reported sightings and shark grouping sizes have increased over time, though they note this could be due to increased public awareness and reporting. Despite past hunting and ongoing threats like fishing gear and ship strikes, basking sharks continue to thrive in Irish waters compared to other regions.

Future research will focus on environmental factors like plankton distribution to better understand the sharks’ behavior. Protecting identified hotspots is crucial for supporting the recovery of this globally endangered species and ensuring Ireland continues to offer a safe haven.