This page provides you with quick facts about Basking Sharks.
(nefsc.noaa.gov)
· The Basking Shark is the second biggest fish - the Whale Shark is the largest.
· Basking Sharks got their name as they appeared to like to 'bask in the sunshine'.
· There is just one species of Basking Shark.
· Basking Sharks usually grow up to 10 meters in length, however there have been some which have grown to between 11 and 13 meters.
· Basking Sharks are not the fastest of swimmers, they travel about 3 mph (5 kph).
· Adult Basking Sharks weigh around 9000 lbs (4 t).
· Female Basking Sharks are thought to be larger in size than males.
· Basking Sharks can filter around 1.5 million litres of water per hour.
· Basking Sharks travel either on their own or in groups, which can sometimes be up to 100 sharks.
· Predators of the Basking Shark are Killer Whales and Tiger Sharks.
· Basking Sharks are harmless to humans, however, sadly it isn't the case the other way around, as they've been hunted and are now on the endangered species list.