In 2024, The Great White Shark Project recorded thousands of shark encounters, with bronzer whaler sharks being the most frequently observed. Unfortunately, sightings of great white sharks have significantly fallen.
THE DECREASE IN GREAT WHITE SHARK SIGHTINGS
Concerns about the decrease in great white shark populations in Gansbaai first emerged in early 2017. That year, several great white carcasses washed ashore under mysterious circumstances, showing no signs of human involvement. At the same time, researchers noted that a number of acoustically tagged sharks were migrating more than 300 miles away from the area. These early indicators pointed to a larger issue that escalated in 2021 when further disturbances led to even more great whites abandoning the region. The cause was eventually traced to two male killer whales, named Port and Starboard, which were specifically targeting great whites for their livers. Each time they returned to the area, the great whites' disappearances grew longer.
THE IMPACT OF FEWER GREAT WHITES
With fewer great whites in Gansbaai to keep populations in check, both cape fur seals and bronze whaler sharks have increased astronomically in the area. This imbalance is concerning conservationists and researchers, especially as larger colonies of cape fur seals are preying on critically endangered African penguins and competing with them for scarce food resources. Adding to the worry is the potential for learned behaviour among orcas. The same killer whales responsible for decimating the local shark population, once killing 17 sevengill sharks in a single day, could pass these hunting strategies on to others, heightening the threat to great whites and other sharks even further.
THE FUTURE OF THE GREAT WHITE SHARK PROJECT
Continued monitoring and research are providing vital insights into the shifting dynamics of the Gansbaai marine ecosystem. Conservationists are using this data to inform targeted protection efforts, not only for great whites but for the greater ocean food chain. There are early signs that some great whites may be cautiously returning, and with an increase in their prey source in the area, there is hope that Gansbaai will return to its former status as a mecca for great white shark sightings.
Now more than ever, the work being done in Gansbaai is critical. While sightings of great whites have been fewer this year, volunteers have still been immersed in the front lines of marine conservation, encountering a variety of fascinating shark species, as well as whales, dolphins, seals and more, alongside witnessing firsthand the complexities of a recovering ecosystem. Whether you're passionate about sharks and marine conservation or want to contribute to real-world research, your involvement plays a direct role in the future of our oceans!
From data collection and tagging smaller shark species to educating locals and tourists on the misconceptions of sharks, as well as experiencing cage diving with other species like bronze whalers and sevengill sharks, this project offers the chance to gain practical experience, work alongside dedicated marine biologists, and make a tangible impact in marine conservation efforts. Alongside an amazing array of activities and excursions that take place on no-sea days, which you can find in the project guide!
By volunteering on The Great White Shark Project, you're not just observing change; you're helping to drive it.
