Shark Log 27 July 2011

Incredibly calm conditions in False Bay yesterday, with light Northerly winds and very little swell it was a pleasure to be on the water. During the course of the day the marine big 5 (white sharks, seals, dolphins, southern right whales and the African penguin) were observed. Water temperature (14°C) and visibility (7 metres vertical) remain the same, even after the storm and very strong south-easterly winds that passed over the Cape in recent days.

SOSSC 27 July 2011

Sixteen predation attempts were observed, several taking place reasonably close to the boat giving us a great show of the raw power these sharks possess. Only 4 sharks were positively identified, 2 of which were re-sights from last week. We had a big (3.5 metre ETL) chunky (probably a couple of seals in her stomach) female approach the boat. She is very distinct and noticeable from the freshly cut notch in the very tip of her upper caudal lobe (top of the tail). This notch will help us identify her in future, of course in conjunction with the dorsal fin for accuracy but it is a very good short time marking to use.

SOSSC 27 JUly 2011

Great day to be out on the water.

SOSSC 27 July 2011