Basking Shark conference
The conference, which runs from 31 July – 6 August, will culminate in a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) meeting for basking sharks. It is hoped that proposals made as a result of this meeting could take scientists a step further towards better protection for this marine giant. The Wildlife Trusts, Marine Conservation Society (MCS) and The Shark Trust are joint lead partners for the BAP group. 
Despite being an internationally recognised endangered species with legal protection, a 2008 report published by The Wildlife Trusts concluded that basking sharks are still under threat in UK waters.
Dr Lissa Goodwin, marine policy officer for The Wildlife Trusts, said: “There is nothing quite like the sight of a basking shark in the ocean – the sheer scale of them is astounding. But they are under threat both in the UK and abroad.
“Last year’s Basking Shark Report highlighted the need for discussion around the introduction of UK Marine Conservation Zones in order to address this threat, and we are delighted that this will happen at the conference, with input from world experts on basking sharks.
The Isle of Man is an unbeatable spot for basking
shark sightings.
“This conference is a vital opportunity for the global predicament of basking sharks to be assessed and for the most dedicated individuals from across the world to share their knowledge of basking sharks.”
The MCS are delighted to see so many experts congregate for the conference, and see it as global recognition of the importance of the Isle of Man to these vulnerable sharks.
Dr Jean-Luc Solandt, MCS Biodiversity Officer said, “Over 5 years of collective effort between conservationists, governments and scientists have led to a vastly improved outlook for the basking shark in UK and Isle of Man waters. It’s a testament to our work that this conference is being held in the number one hotspot for basking sharks in the British Isles.”
Ali Hood, Director of Conservation for The Shark Trust commented, “Whilst the conference will enhance our understanding of the species, it is hoped that the BAP meeting will take a closer look at the threats to the basking shark, examining the photographic identification database and providing an assessment of anthropogenic impacts, such as boat strike and net entanglement.”
The pre-conference activities begin today with ‘A Community Celebration of Basking Sharks’. These celebrations are open to all, will take place each day between 31 July and 2 August, in Port Erin, Isle of Man. Members of the public will be able to meet shark experts, learn more about basking sharks and see life-size models of basking sharks, which grow to over 10m.. Throughout the week there will also be opportunities for delegates to take boat trips out to watch the sharks off the Isle of Man – an unbeatable spot for basking shark sightings.
Hon. Phil Gawne MHK, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry of the Isle of Man Government, which organised the conference in conjunction with Manx Wildlife Trust and the Save Our Seas Foundation, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this prestigious conference in the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man Government is committed to the conservation of basking sharks in our Territorial Sea but we realise that this migratory species needs to be protected throughout its range. We hope that this meeting of key international players in basking shark conservation will be a major step forward in ensuring a future for this important species.”
For further information please contact:
Tanya Perdikou
media & campaigns officer
Tel: 01636 670057
Email: tperdikou@wildlifetrusts.org
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