The two sharks, a species of shark quite common in Portuguese waters (Prionace glauca, commonly known as Blue Sharks), were sighted on Saturday, April 27th, next to the Palafítica do Nadadouro Wharf, in Braço da Barrosa.
Despite being sharks, the municipality emphasises that they are a “fragile species and, for the most part, at risk of extinction”, considering that “in a normal situation there is no reason for alarm”.
Even so, “in the event of a sighting, it is not recommended to remain in the water”, warns the municipality, adding that “these species should not be chased, cornered or touched, since, if they feel threatened, they may have behavioural changes that involve risk to people”.
According to the Chamber, “the most likely will be that these two sharks will return to the sea independently, which may have already happened”, but in the event of a new sighting inside the lagoon, the observation should be reported to the Port Authority of Peniche (262 790 330) and ICNF - Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (968 849 101) so that they can be rescued and returned to the ocean.
Leave the water in the event of sighting a shark? Do you expect brave Brits who have paid a metaphorical arm and leg for their holiday not to risk losing real arms and legs? Very unlikely!
By Ian Pritchard from Lisbon on 30 Apr 2024, 18:34
Leave the sharks alone and just get out of the water. We need this species in order for our precious ecosystem to survive. Sharks are already considered on the verge of extinction thanks to greedy humans.
By Lisa from Other on 01 May 2024, 20:48