Scuba Diver Ocean Planet Issue 04/2016 | Page 18

THE CHECKLIST Shark Spotting Philippines © 123RF/andamanse © 123RF/andamanse © 123RF/Richard Whitcombe Whale shark (Rhincodon typus) Donsol, at the south of the main Luzon Island in the Philippines, is the place to see whale sharks. This gentle, docile creature, which feeds on plankton, is the biggest shark in the sea and the largest living animal that is not a cetacean. The whale sharks in Donsol are protected and only snorkelling is allowed, but diving is permitted in nearby locations. December to May is the season and the best sightings are from February to April, although this is also the busiest time. Leopard shark (Triakis semifasciata) These pretty sharks are by no means delicate, although they are docile and harmless. Generally they are found resting quite lethargically on the seabed in the daytime since they are nocturnal and hunt at night. If you do spot one, you can safely get close, but don’t disturb its slumber because it will quickly swim away. This shark is able to actively pump water over its gills, which means it can breathe without swimming, unlike many other shark species. Thus during the day, leopard sharks can usually be seen resting on the ocean floor around coral reefs with their mouths open facing the current. SDOP 16 Egypt Oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus) These guys are very curious and often interact with divers in shallow water and on safety stops. They seem particularly interested in divers with large camera housings and dome ports, probably because they can see their reflection. Oceanics have a shady reputation, but they are not known for aggression towards divers and as long as you remain calm there is no danger. UK Blue shark (Prionace glauca) Blue sharks, so called for their beautiful indigo colouring, are found in very deep, cool waters. They are rare, but there are blue shark trips organised out of Penzance in Cornwall which are generally successful. You may occasionally see a blue shark leap out of the water in order to see what types of foods are on the surface for them to eat. They are extremely fast swimmers so it can be hard to track them. They swim long distances in order to follow their food sources. The biggest threat faced by the blue shark, as most sharks, is that from fishing.