Brits are only just realising what 'dangerous' sharks there are in UK waters
A popular TikTok account has revealed that a number of 'dangerous' sharks have been spotted in waters surrounding England - and it's making people think twice before diving in
A popular TikTok account has revealed that a number of 'dangerous' sharks have been spotted in waters surrounding England - and it's making people think twice before diving inThere are some dangerous sharks in UK waters (stock image)
Think there are no sharks in English waters that could harm us?
You might be shocked to discover that sightings of more 'dangerous' sharks have been reported in the waters around England, which could make you reconsider your carefree beach frolics.
According to @fishfactsdaily, a variety of sharks lurk beneath the surface, and some of them are more dangerous than others.
The basking shark is first on the list, with a danger rating of 2/10. The Wildlife Trust describes this gentle giant as "This gentle giant is the largest shark in UK seas, reaching up to 12m in length. There's no need to fear them though, they only eat plankton".
Next is the Mako shark, with a danger rating of 8/10. Oyster Diving identifies the Mako as "Britain's fastest summer visitor and appears along the south coast of Britain. Arguably the most dangerous shark in the UK, the Mako can grow up to 12 feet in length."
The Save Our Seas Foundation adds: "Due to their speed, power and size, shortfin makos are often considered a danger to humans. However, there are few accounts of unprovoked attacks on humans.
"The majority of injuries caused by shortfin makos have occurred when the shark is caught on fishing line."
The blue shark may also be found in UK waters, with a danger rating of 6/10.
The Florida Museum of Natural History warned: "The blue shark is relatively unaggressive but is very curious and will approach divers and spearfishers, especially if food is available. According to the ISAF, the blue shark is responsible for thirteen unprovoked shark bites worldwide."
The TikToker also rated the porbeagle shark, found in UK waters, with a danger score of 6/10, adding: "Although the porbeagle is related to the much-feared shortfin mako and white shark, it rarely attacks humans. The International Shark Attack File (ISAF) lists two unprovoked attacks by porbeagles off England and Canada, both on divers and both non-fatal."
Finally, according to Smithsonian Ocean, when referring to the thresher shark, also present in UK waters with a danger rating of 7/10, they say: "Even though it is an expert hunter, the thresher shark is shy and harmless to humans and is unlikely to attack them."