REFLECTIONS ON A RARE BASKING SHARK ENCOUNTER
August 2020
Dr. Simon Berrow narrates his experience with basking sharks in the fall off West Clare. The species is often seen feeding in this area in the spring - but the seasonal timing of this experience was not the only unusual component...
© Alexandra McInturf
SHARKS | Bunagee Beauty
SUPPORT:
Scoil Naomh Buadain, Culdaff
TEACHER: BERNARDINE QUINN
DESCRIPTION
Bunagee Beauty was a 5m shark spotted feeding with its nose above the surface, a classic behavior for this species. The shark was tagged in the afternoon in the Garvan Isle Sound. It was found among obvious tidal eddies where plankton had collected during a strong tidal flow. Sex remains unknown.
Bunagee Beauty Dorsal Fin
© E. Johnston 2012
THE NAME
‘Bunagee Beauty’ is an apt choice for a shark named near the small but picturesque coastal community of Culdaff. This village faces a sheltered bay backed by relatively untouched beaches. Surfing, kayaking and angling are popular during the summer months, and Bunagee Pier is the centre of maritime activity with two resident charter angling vessels and numerous other craft engaged in seasonal crab and lobster potting. Culdaff also hosts an annual water-sports and angling festival, large music and cultural events as well as the Charles Macklin Autumn School, a celebration of artistic heritage.