Hundreds of basking sharks spotted 'courting' along Irish coast
This looks like something from David Attenborough's Planet Earth 🦈
Last updated 2nd Sep 2021
It's been a busy few months for wildlife enthusiasts, with everything from 10,000 jellyfish to dancing dolphins, even Wally the wandering Walrus went viral over the summer.
Well, not just one, but hundreds of basking sharks have been recorded swimming in circles at Loop Head, on the Co. Clare coast in the last few days.
According to the Irish Basking Shark Group (IBSG), the sharks are engaging in courtship behaviour. This is only the second time they've been recorded behaving this way by the IBSG.
Earlier this year, the IBSG joined a group of international scientists in calling for the Government to provide legal protection of basking sharks in Irish waters under the Wildlife Act.
With so many swimming along the coast, scientists are researching why our waters are the perfect habitat for feeding and possibly reproduction.
Basking sharks are the world's second largest fish, reaching up to 12m in length. Don't panic, basking sharks are not harmful to humans, they feed on plankton and small ocean organisms.
The IBSG have asked anyone visiting the area to maintain at least 4m distance from the sharks. It's important we all play our part to protect these incredible sea creatures, it's estimated that there might be less than 10,000 sharks in the whole of the North Atlantic.
If you'd like to explore some of Northern Ireland's most picturesque beaches, we've got a handy guide with some of our favourites.
Check it out 👇
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Whiterocks Beach, Portrush
Just one hour and 30 minutes from Belfast, you won't have to travel too far for some much needed R&R. Popular with surfers, bodyboarders and dog-walkers alike, this stretch of coastline is ideal for sunrise/sunset moments. It was awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Award again in 2020.
Murlough Beach, Newcastle
The boardwalk alone that leads from the car park to the shore is stunning. You're greeted with five miles of golden sands as you arrive. Your backdrop for a snap here has to include the iconic Mourne Mountains.
Downhill Strand, Castlerock
Mussenden Temple sits perched overlooking Downhill's enchanting beach. On a bright summer's day take in views of the Donegal Coast and beyond. If you are visiting, look out for the train as it roars past the beach on its to Derry/Londonderry.
Portstewart Strand, North Coast
Owned and cared for by the National Trust, Portstewart's Strand is one of Northern Ireland's finest. Cars can drive onto the sand, making this a perfect choice for families picnicking and swimming in the shallow shores.
Seapark, Holywood
This is a popular seaside visit for Belfast locals, tucked alongside the harbour, your sunset pic here could go viral with views like this. Holywood's main parkland and recreational area has a variety of activities including tennis courts, putting green and children's playground.
Warrenpoint, Newry
The views over the mouth of Carlingford Lough and the scenic Mourne Mountains make this spot such a picture-perfect location. The water here is popular with locals for jet skiing, kayaking and banana boating.
Tyrella Beach, Downpatrick
This wide and flat stretch of sand is nestled close to Dundrum Bay and is popular with locals throughout the summer. The Mourne Mountains lurk in the distance behind the wispy dunes here too.
Minerstown Beach, Ardglass
One of Northern Ireland's hidden gems, Minerstown is the perfect destination for sea swimming. The water is both shallow and calm - plus look at that sunset pic!
Ballycastle Beach, Causeway Coast
This 1.2km beach is made up mostly of sand and pebbles. A wooden bridge leads from the eastern end of the beach to a well-known rock formation, "Pans Rock".
Magiligan Point, Limavady
With seven-miles of sand this beach walk offers visitors the chance to roam, spot birdlife and potentially seals.
White Park Bay, Ballintoy
A short trek down the cliff towards the sea and you'll be blown away, sometimes literally by the beauty of White Park Bay. You will can see why Game of Thrones used this spot as a location for the HBO show - you can't build caves and arches quite like this!
Ballywalter Beach, Newtownards
Ballywalter beach sits in a rural setting along the Ards Peninsula, backed mostly by fields, making it ideal for walkers looking for some peace and quiet.
East Strand, Portrush
At the heart of the coastal town of Portrush, East Strand Beach is popular for surfing and water sports all year round. With views of The Skerries and the Causeway headlands, this is one of the best walking routes Northern Ireland has on offer!
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