Shark Focus - Issue 68

SH RK F

ISSUE 68

O

C

U

S

SUMMER 2022

ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

WELCOME summer2022

WELCOME

SHARK TRUST

ISSUE 68

ADDRESS: 4 Creykes Court, The Millfields, Plymouth, PL1 3JB, UK

WELCOME! 25 Years Ago the Shark Trust was created, in a small office

PHONE:

in Weybridge. In 1998, one year later, the first issue of Shark Focus

+44 (0)1752 672008

rolled off the press. It’s now my pleasure to welcome you to the first of

EMAIL:

two special anniversary editions of Shark Focus for the year 2022!

focus@sharktrust.org

We’ve tried to give you something special to celebrate our 25th Anniversary. This issue features special guest contributions, dives into the history of the Shark Trust and introduces the team behind Shark Trust. This issue also marks the first issue of Shark Focus for which all printed copies are carbon offset. This will be the case for all future printed copies of Shark Focus.

This year has been busy as ever for us at the Shark Trust. We’ve COVER: Illustrations created by Tracie Megumi.

You can find out more about Tracie in this issue’s Day in the Life.

WEBSITE: www.sharktrust.org TRUSTEES: Jayne Ensell-Bowen, Roger Covey, Dan Fairweather, Sarah Fowler OBE, Charles Hood, Jane

seen some new members of staff join the team. And we are deep in

Attwood, Dean Martin,

the midst of organising another fantastic For the Love of Sharks event

David Elliott and

(more details on page 5). We are also looking forward to our first Great

Richard Peirce.

Shark Snapshot – taking place in July. Finally, we have some other big plans being lined up for later in the year… so there’s plenty to look forward to in the coming months!

So settle down, and join us, for a celebration of 25 years of the Shark Trust.

PATRONS: Steve Backshall, Nick Baker, John Boyle, Leonard Compagno, Marc Dando, Bob Earll, Paul Rose, Ian Fergusson, Mariella Frostrup, Loyd Grossman, John Gummer MP, Monty Halls, Martha Holmes,

ADMIN

Kate Humble, Sir David Jason OBE, Gordon Ramsay OBE, Simon

GLENYS HEAFIELD

Rogerson, Jeremy

Company Secretary

Stafford-Deitsch,

Head of Finance & Administration

Michaela Strachan and Valerie Taylor.

2022 is a big milestone

we are so very grateful

special anniversary year

don’t want that

for The Shark Trust as it

to everyone who

for shark conservation.

to happen.

is our 25th Anniversary,

continues to support us

I have been here for 22

through subscriptions

several reminders this

lovely for you and your

of these years, and I

and donations. The

month of changes in

families. I would like to

have seen the enormous

fundraising events

address, so can I ask

take this opportunity

contact the Shark

changes our vital work

undertaken are inspiring

all of you, if you have

again to thank you all

Trust. The views and

brings.

and we send big thanks

moved house, please

for your support

opinions expressed

talk of inflation, fuel

to each one of you. Your

make sure you tell

throughout the years.

by the authors are not

costs, and higher

generosity is incredible.

me where you are. If

necessarily those of the

prices on the way,

Keep watching all our

you miss out on Focus

Shark Trust.

charity rightly begins

social media for events

copies, we might not

DESIGN: Hazel Graham

at home. Therefore,

and news and help

have back issues when

and most importantly,

us make this an extra

you remember and we

0. 2.

I hope the season is

Shark Focus is copyrighted so those wishing to reproduce articles must first

www.carbonbalancedprint.com CBP2229

sharktrust.org

© XXXXXXXX

With constant

I have received

© Shark Trust 2019

communicating SHARK conservation

26.

DAY in the LIFE

the ANNIVERSARY issue

10.

MEET

he

t

m tea

12.

30.

06.

22. a long dive into

SHARKS

PUP’S CLUB

it’s all a matter of size

CONTENTS FEATURES

REGULARS

–

–

08. MAKING WAVES © ASLYSUN/SHUTTERSTOCK

How shark conservation has changed in 25 years

10. COMMUNCATING SHARK CONSERVATION

Changing the way we talk about sharks

12. WE ARE THE SHARK TRUST Meet all of the team!

16. POSTER

Whale Shark

20. PROJECT UPDATES

Catch up on all the latest project news

22. A LONG DIVE INTO SHARKS

By Sarah Fowler, founder of The Shark Trust

26. A DAY IN THE LIFE

Tracie Megumi, Illustrator

sharktrust.org

04.

06.

18.

19.

20.

25.

28.

MEMBER’S CORNER GLOBAL SHARK NEWS FUNDRAISING SHARK TALK Ali Hood CREATURE FEATURE Port Jackson SHARK TALK Paul Cox PUP’S CLUB 3.

MEMBER’S corner

MEMBER’S CORNER Your views, exclusive events and news for Shark Trust Members

COMPETITION WINNER In Issue 67 we asked our readers to create something that showcases a species of shark or a fact about sharks.

We had some amazing entries, and choosing a winner was not easy.

We are pleased to announce the winner is Matthew Wimpenny! His poem is about his first time diving up close with a shark.

ON THE MONAD SHOAL

MEMBERS Q&A EVENING

Date: Thursday 21st July Time: 7pm to 8:30pm (BST) Where: Online via Zoom

question and we will do our best to answer it on the night. Just click on the link below.

Please register so that we can email you a Zoom link on the morning of the event. We look forward to seeing you there!

You can meet the team. Find out about what we have been working on and what the future holds. We have plenty to tell you about!

You can also ask us questions about sharks, rays and our work. When you register for the event you can submit a

SCAN THE QR CODE To sign up & submit your questions!

SHARK TRUST SOCIAL MEDIA is the time to do so as we’ve got loads

content for our followers on Instagram,

more content on the way! And if you have

Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. We have been

any suggestions for topics you want to see

running monthly 60 Second Sharks over on

us talk about, then drop us a message on

Instagram. We’re seeing some great responses

social media or comment on our videos!

and replies, so please keep them coming!

Instagram: @thesharktrust

Roundup, which can also be viewed on our

Twitter: @SharkTrustUK

Instagram reels.

YouTube: The Shark Trust

If you’re not following us already, then now

4.

On the Monad Shoal, waiting slowly waiting, Peering through the deep turquoise, When appears a large caudal, Full of elegance and poise, Dreaming and awake, - it’s a stunning 12ft Thresher Matthew Wimpenny

We’ve been busy rolling out brand-new

We’ve also launched a monthly News

Strap on tanks, fasten buckles, Knowing nods of things unsaid, Final checks as you leave the deck, Glad of benign weather, Descending slow and calm, - feeling increasing pressure

Shark Trust Reply: Matthew’s poem really captured the sense of anticipation and stillness that occurs before any encounter with wildlife. We hope you enjoy your copy of A Pocket Guide to the Sharks of the World!

Facebook: @thesharktrust sharktrust.org

© C E NEWMAN / SHUTTERSTOCK

As part of our 25th Anniversary celebrations, we are inviting you, our valued Shark Trust members, to join us for a special Q&A event.

In the islands, quaint and green, Where the horizon lasts forever, Salt cakes every inch, And breeze light as a feather, Cap’n gnarled and worn, - I’ve never felt fresher

FOR THE L VE OF

SHARKS 2022 2022 sees the return of our flagship event – For the Love of Sharks!

Alex Mustard

and 2023. We’re bringing together artists from a variety of backgrounds who are passionate about wildlife, conservation, and using art as a tool for positive change. On the night we’ll be

JOIN US on the 24th November at the Royal

evening. Our very own Ali Hood, Director

exhibiting their work, and you’ll get a chance

Geographical Society, London, for an inspiring

of Conservation will be giving an exclusive

to meet some of the artists.

evening of talks, presentations and stories

presentation, on the latest shark conservation

to celebrate all things sharks. We’ve got an

and the importance of the next 10 years.

© © XXXXXXXX ALEX MUSTARD / JIMMY HIGGS

outstanding and exciting group of speakers,

We also have the world renowned, multi-

the very best in shark conservation, science

award-winning underwater photographer –

and advocacy, to keep you on the edge of

Alex Mustard. Focusing on species linked to an

your seat. We’ll be teasing you with the

exciting announcement we will be revealing

announcement of speakers over the coming

on the night.

weeks. So make sure you’re following us on our social media pages!

2022 is the Shark Trust 25th anniversary, and this will be celebrated throughout the @SharkTrustUK

The evening will also host a brand new,

So – scan the QR code (or click it if digital) to get your tickets now!

We look forward to celebrating sharks with you and sharing some exciting, huge news!

SCAN THE QR CODE

never before seen, exclusive shark art

To get your

exhibition! Giving you the first look at an

tickets now!

exciting and ambitious new project for 2022

5.

6.

Common Stingrays are just one of many species found off the Welsh coast

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY

SOUTH AFRICA // 2021

WALES

With 191 species of shark, skate, ray, and

People of all ages can dive into marine

chimaera found in its waters, South Africa is

conservation and learn about the

rightly known as a hot spot for cartilaginous

extraordinary sharks, skates and rays living in

fishes. With over 30% of these sharks

Welsh coastal waters, in a new project which

threatened with extinction, researchers and

gives diverse

local communities are joining together to

local communities

find more effective ways of conserving shark

the chance to be

populations. Including the development of

part of a ‘green

Marine Protected Areas (MPA).

recovery’ in Wales.

CASYS WYAU SIARCOD A MORGATHOD

GOGLEDD ORLLEWIN EWROP

USA

and have produced

A recent study by a team of scientists from

Welsh language

University of Miami has revealed warming

ID guides for

5-6 cm

MORGATH FANNOG

MORGATH DDREINIOG

MORGATH LYGAID-BACH

MORGATH DONNOG

MORGATH LYGADOG

Raja montagui

Raja clavata

Raja microocellata

Raja undulata

Leucoraja naevus

Hyd y capsiwl: 5-6 cm

Hyd y capsiwl: 6-7 cm

Hyd y capsiwl: 7-8 cm

Hyd y capsiwl: 7-8 cm

Hyd y capsiwl: 5-6 cm

Project SIARC –

MORGATH BIGOG Amblyraja radiata Hyd y capsiwl: 3.5-4.5 cm

MORGATH LAS Dipturus batis

MORGATH FELEN

Hyd y capsiwl: 13-15 cm

Raja brachyura Hyd y capsiwl: 10-12cm

ocean temperatures is altering the timings

coastal species

and locations of Tiger Shark migration in

of Wales!

the Northwest Atlantic. These findings

Dipturus intermedius

FE’U GELWIR HEFYD YN FORGWN – SERCH HYNNY, MAE MORGWN GO IAWN YN RHOI GENEDIGAETH I EPIL BYW.

MORGI LLEIAF Scyliorhinus canicula

have implications for the conservation of this Near Threatened shark.

MORGATH DRWYNFAIN

CATH-SIARCOD/MORGWN

Hyd y capsiwl: 5-7 cm

Hyd y capsiwl: 15-20 cm

MORGATH WEN

Y Forgath Gyffredin oedd ei henw blaenorol.

Hyd y capsiwl: 13-15 cm

Rostroraja alba

MORGI CEGDDU MORGI BRYCH Scyliorhinus stellaris Hyd y capsiwl: 8-10 cm

Galeus melastomus Hyd y capsiwl: 4.5-6.5 cm

Cofnodwch

www.eggcaseyn .org om www.prosiectsiarc.c

Mae Project SIARC yn brosiect cydweithredol a arweinir gan ZSL (Zoological Society of London) a Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru (CNC), gyda chefnogaeth gan Cronfa Rhwydweithiau Natur Llywodraeth Cymru, Cronfa Dreftadaeth y Loteri Genedlaethol ac On the Edge.

sharktrust.org

© VALDA BUTTERWORTH; FROGFISH PHOTOGRAPHY © ROSIE WOODROFFE; GARETH MILLSON

JANUARY

partnered with

YN SAESNEG, CYFEIRIR AT SAWL RHYWOGAETH FEL ‘RAY’ YN EU HENW CYFFREDIN ER MAI ‘SKATE’ YDYNT MEWN GWIRIONEDD. Mae hydoedd y capsiwlau ar gyfer casys wyau gwlyb gan eithrio’r cyrn.

Shark Trust are

MORGATHOD

Darluniadau © Marc Dando | Delweddau © The Shark Trust

GLOBAL NEWS

GLOBAL news

Caribbean Reef Shark at night

MARCH AUSTRALIA

A study from the School of Life Sciences at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia, and the Institute of Marine Science at the University of Auckland, New Zealand has shown that sleep in sharks differs from mammals more significantly than originally thought.

Whale Sharks are at risk from collisions with large vessels

APRIL UK

A rare Greenland shark found washed up on a Cornish beach in March,

in Cornwall

/thesharktrust

@SharkTrustUK

UK

died of meningitis, a

A new study out of the UK is pointing to collisions with large

post mortem has found.

marine vessels as a possible reason for the years-long decline

The female, found just

Greenland shark

MAY in Whale Shark populations. Marine biologists from the Marine

outside Newlyn Harbour

Biological Association and University of Southampton led

in Cornwall, UK, was

the study, tracked the movements of ships and whale sharks

estimated to be 100 years

around the world. Finding that there could be large levels of

old by marine biologists.

unreported and undetected strikes with vessels.

7.

T

hings have changed substantially since the Shark Trust were established back in 1997. A changing climate, policies and understanding of the issues

surrounding shark conservation. Changes to the way research is conducted, public perceptions of sharks and the way we communicate conservation. This has meant we have had to adapt how we work as an organisation. 25 years in, we are constantly learning from the past and adapting for the future.

So, in the first of our Anniversary Editions we’ll be taking a look at what has influenced the communication of shark conservation. How it has changed. And what the future holds for shark conservation communication.

Our second feature takes a look at the people of the Shark Trust. You can learn about how each team member arrived at the Trust. And what working at the Shark Trust involves!

MAKING IN THIS SECTION

© CONOR JOHN

10-11.

Changing Shark Conservation Communication 8.

sharktrust.org

WAVES 25 YEARS OF RESEARCH, CONSERVATION AND ACTION

12-15.

We are the Shark Trust @SharkTrustUK

9.

25 years of

COMMUNICATING SHARK CONSERVATION Things have changed a lot since the Shark Trust started in 1997.

something which was almost unheard of at the

Mako Sharks) as killers. Even the well-loved

in climate, policies and

time. It’s popularity with the public and critics

Finding Nemo (2004) portrays sharks as

understanding of the

alike have established it as an absolute classic.

predators that are unable to stop themselves

issues surrounding shark

But it was a double-edged sword.

from feeding on smaller fish. In 2022, media

conservation. It’s also

Perceptions of sharks as dangerous human-

reporting of sharks is still biased towards

brought changes to the

hunters grew across the globe. So much so,

negativity and shark “attacks”. And Hollywood

public perceptions of sharks and the way we

that the author of the original book (on which

still pushes out a shark horror/thriller

communicate conservation.

the film was based) expressed regret for his

every few years (The Meg with Jason Statham

This has meant we’ve had to adapt how

depiction of sharks. He went on to become an

being a particularly fine/ridiculous example

we work as an organisation. 25 years in, we

advocate for marine conservation. Despite the

from recent years).

are constantly learning from the past and

negative depiction of sharks, many present-

adapting for the future. So, in this feature,

day marine biologists and shark researchers

we’re going to look at how communication,

say the film is what inspired them to get into

research and policy work has changed

marine conservation. However, the lasting

since we started in 1997.

impact on the public means that sharks are

A

Jaws. We can’t talk about communicating about sharks without mentioning the academy

still perceived negatively by many.

Fast forward to the 90s and early 00s.

nd it seems that one major issue is that the way researchers and conservationists deal with this negative press has remained the

same for years. Comparing the number of deaths from shark bites to the number of

award winning 1975 classic. The film depicts a

The portrayal of sharks in films and media

deaths from vending machines or pigs, for

Great White hunting down local beachgoers in

was much the same. Focusing on a narrow

example. This is something we’ve done in the

an American seaside town. It’s known for being

group or even just a specific species, like the

past. But as we grow our own knowledge and

the first ever ‘summer blockbuster’. Shown

White Shark. Films like Deep Blue Sea (1999)

skills, we are shifting our communications

across hundreds of screens at the same time,

continued to showcase sharks (in that case,

away from myth-busting. Whilst entertaining,

10.

sharktrust.org

© BRANDELET / SHUTTERSTOCK

T

ime has brought changes

9th EEA Conference 23rd-26th November 2005 The Conference This year, the 9th EEA annual conference is being held in the Principality of Monaco at its famous Oceanographic Museum.

In a favourable position on the shores of the Mediterranean sea, Monaco has a long and traditional oceanographic history.

Among the Museum’s directors was the famous Commander Jacques-Yves Cousteau, who assumed the position from 1957 until 1988, after a successful career as a naval officer.

His legacy is carried on by the Cousteau Society, founded in 1973. Our present Director, Professor Jean Jaubert, serves also as the Society’s Scientific Director.

The focus of the 9th Conference of the European Elasmobranch Association is on biodiversity, fisheries and conservation of Mediterranean sharks, rays and chimaeras.

The Mediterranean ichthyological fauna is composed of 86 species (48 sharks, 37 rays and 1 chimaera) with endemic species, some of Atlantic origin and some lessepsian migrants (originating from the Red Sea).

The main topic of the 9th Conference of the European Elasmobranch Association is: “Biodiversity, fishery and conservation of Chondrichthyans in the Mediterranean sea.“

SharkFocus

Issue 23 July 2005

THE MAGAZINE OF THE SHARK TRUST

JAWS

Thirty years on The oceanographic Museum seen from the sea. © Musée océanographique de Monaco – Michel Dagnino

The Programme The Meeting will last for 4 days (23-26th November 2005). The attendees will be welcomed with cocktails on the evening of the first day and the two following days will be dedicated exclusively to the scientific conference and to the plenary assembly of the EEA Board.

To open the meeting, an inaugural lecture will be given by a shark specialist of international fame.

An open photo competition will be scheduled on the topic of “sharks”. The best photo will be awarded the EEA 2005 prize.

This Trade must Finish Whale Sharks

two first experiences

New Patron plus all your Shark Trust and EEA news

On the final day, there will be an optional visit to some of Monaco’s museums.

and Basil’s latest adventures

WIN A LIMITED EDITION JAWS DVD

Information: 9th EEA Meeting’s Organizing Committee Musée océanographique de Monaco Avenue Saint-Martin MC 98000 – Monaco Tel : +377.93.15.36.00 - Fax : +377.97.70.62.59 Website : www.oceano.mc E-mail : m.bruni@oceano.mc

Blacktip Reef Shark in the MOM aquarium’s big tank. © Musée océanographique de Monaco – Frédéric Pacorel

Supporting the

A THROWBACK Our branding and content has also changed drastically since 1997! Our old logo is a blast from the past, and served us well for nearly 18 years! In 2015 it was retired, and replaced with our current logo.

Shark Focus followed a few years later. In 2019 Focus was refreshed to become the magazine you see now!

1997

“

TIME IS WASTED MYTH-BUSTING RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON THE REAL ISSUES

”

2022

than talking about how sharks aren’t killers.

community science projects. And we can

Changing our own language to reflect how

now show people how fantastic sharks

amazing sharks are, rather than reflecting on

are in amazing ways…

how they aren’t terrible, has been essential for us as an organisation.

Virtual reality has been found to be an effective tool to help change conservation

Social media wasn’t around in 1997. In

attitudes and behaviours. We’re in the process

fact, Facebook didn’t open for everyone until

of developing 360-degree video content which

2006! We’ve had to adapt our communications

will be available for everyone to experience.

it gives weight to the idea that sharks are

for the 21st century. In 2022, most of our

Anyone will be able to dive with sharks from

mindless killers. It also means that time is

communications are digital. In fact, we’ve

the comfort of their sofa.

wasted myth-busting rather than focusing

just started rolling out our digital leaflet –

on the real issues, like destructive fishing

Shark Talk (see if you can spot our QR code on

and fisheries policy.

your next aquarium visit). Which reduces our

W

We still have a lot of work to do to convince

carbon footprint, and means that we can make

e’ve also produced a toolkit for researchers. It uses the latest behaviour change

a lot of people that Sharks are amazing! This

changes remotely whenever we want. This is

is being made easier with advancements

a big difference to when we started in 1997,

communications about sharks. So that our

in technology and the emergence of new

when the internet was still in its infancy and

content is the most effective at stimulating

fields and research. This means the way we

the idea of everyone having a computer in their

positive perceptions.

communicate about sharks is changing. We

pocket was ludicrous!

know that talking about how great sharks are

We aim to shift perceptions by using

techniques to help guide

Overall, the future looks positive for public attitudes towards sharks. We’ll continue to

and inspiring people to learn about them is

technology, through social media, video

ensure that we focus on what’s important –

far more effective at changing perceptions

content, partnerships with brands and global

telling everyone that sharks are awesome.

@SharkTrustUK

11.

We are the

SHARK

Trust

Meet the team behind the Shark Trust in our anniversary special!

Name: Glenys Heafield Role: Head of Finance & Administration/ Company Secretary/HR How long have you been with the Trust?

22 years and 3 months

12.

Where were you before working at the

but finance is my passion.

Shark Trust?

The best thing about working for the

For a local political party doing their accounts.

Shark Trust?

A little about yourself?

Watching how far the Trust has evolved, from

I love Northern Soul Music, gardening,

an office in an old ice cream parlour with 2

collecting antique china and jewellery. I like

staff, to where we are today. Everyone playing

a plan, attention to detail and receipts for

their part.

everything!

Advice for anyone looking to get into the

A typical day in your role?

world of Shark Conservation

Dealing with the bank accounts, paying bills,

I am not the person to answer this, but you will

servicing the membership & supporters,

need a thick skin and a very positive attitude,

usual administrative and finance things. Not

as it is a tough career choice faced with many

glamourous but necessary.

challenges.

Why did you want to work for the

What’s your favourite Shark, Skate

Shark Trust?

or Ray?

I would like to say it’s all about conservation,

Cookiecutter sharktrust.org

Name: Ali Hood

Name: Cat Gordon

Name: Paul Cox

Role: Director of Conservation

Role: Senior Conservation Officer

Role: C.E.O

How long have you been with the Trust?

How long have you been with the Trust?

How long have you been with the Trust?

Just a month short of 20 years!

Nearly 12 years!

7.5 years

Where were you before working at the

A little about yourself?

A little about yourself?

Shark Trust?

I’m originally from Milton Keynes – as far

I spent several years working in banking

The Marine Biological Association of the

from the coast as you can get in the UK -

before making the break at 30 to study

United Kingdom.

but relocated to Devon to be near the sea. I

marine biology. I later did a masters in science

A little about yourself?

frequently go out walking with my husband,

communication and also studied conservation

I’m passionate and persistent, and not very

daughter and two lively cocker spaniels –

psychology as part of my role at the NMA. I first

good at sitting still, so I relish a life with rather

often seeking out the many beautiful beaches

dived when I was in my 20’s and was instantly

too much going on. I love to swim, coach

or coast paths we’re lucky enough to have in

smitten with the underwater world. I imagined

underwater hockey and grow tomatoes! I

the southwest, and, as my husband will attest

that by becoming a marine biologist I’d spend

have a very long-suffering family, and a house

to, I can’t go to a beach without scouting for

my whole life underwater. That was maybe a

littered with eggcases and shark-parts!

eggcases! I love being in the sea too and am a

bit unrealistic! After leaving my banking job, I

A typical day in your role?

keen scuba diver, though I need to dust off my

travelled for 2 years with my (now) wife and got

A typical day – well the great thing about

kit and get back in the water!

to see some amazing places above and below

our work is that is can be so varied! While much of my time is dedicated to high seas sharks: advocating for science-based fisheries management. I might as easily be writing a funding proposal; thinking up a new angle to further a campaign objectives; or dealing with the latest media obsession. We always have

water. Since then I’ve lived in Plymouth (itself

NO DAY IS TYPICAL...

SOMETHING WILL ALWAYS MIX THINGS UP!

lots of plates spinning!

an amazing place!). I have 3 teenage daughters and a dog. When I’m not working I spend more time than really needed in my garden and do a bit of kayaking and paddle-boarding. I’m still waiting to fulfil many of my diving ambitions – maybe when I retire.

Why did you want to work for the

Why did you want to work for the Shark Trust?

Shark Trust?

Having been involved in Shark Trust campaign

A typical day in your role?

I love sharks and marine life and I’ve always

activities in Brussels in the early days of the EU

No day is typical…! Even with an intended

admired the work of the Shark Trust. So, when

Finning Regulation (back in 2001), my interest

work plan set out for the day, something will

the opportunity came along, I couldn’t resist.

in shark conservation was peeked. So when –

always mix things up – whether that’s a media

I wanted to do whatever I could to help the

by chance - I came across a job advert for the

enquiry, interesting email, or an obscure shark

Trust become better know, more appreciated

Trust, it was too good an opportunity to miss!

sighting. In general though, I’m responsible for

and keep expanding their amazing work. It’s

The best thing about working for the

overseeing the species conservation activities

been a fantastic experience so far. Not always

Shark Trust?

of the Trust (including developing species

easy and not always straightforward but I think

The Team – being among people who are

action plans), along with coordinating the

we’re making great progress.

committed to making things change. and we’ve

citizen science projects, with a focus on the

Advice for anyone looking to get into

been lucky to have had some really great staff

Great Eggcase Hunt.

the world of Shark Conservation

over the years. And our external collaborations

Why did you want to work for the Shark Trust?

Learn about what’s really involved for a start. It

and partners – I’ve had/have the privilege of

I wanted to work for an organisation that

can be difficult and dispiriting at times so you

working with some of the most impactful folk

prided itself on being pragmatic and science-

need to be absolutely committed. Be honest

in shark conservation – to learn from the best -

based. The Shark Trust doesn’t work in

and be collaborative. It’s not dog eat dog, it’s

which has been really inspiring.

isolation and I love the collaborative work.

about working together with others.

@SharkTrustUK

13.

Name: Heather Carstens

Name: Caroline Robertson-Brown

Name: Conor John

Role: Fundraising and Engagement Officer

Role: Marketing Coordinator

Role: Science Communicator

How long have you been with the Trust?

How long have you been with the Trust?

How long have you been with the Trust?

4 years

10 months

9 months

A little about yourself?

Where were you before working at the

I live in Tavistock with my husband, son and

Shark Trust?

cat. I love living in Devon, being able to access

Scubaverse.com & Dive Travel Adventures

Dartmoor and the coast. I love gardening and

magazine

growing veg, walking, hiking and cycling. And

A little about yourself?

we spend as much time as possible at the

I live in Manchester with my husband and two

beach in our campervan. I studied Wildlife

golden retrievers, Gucci and Enzo. I am an avid

Conservation so I’m very passionate about

scuba diver, and my favourite dives are always

all wildlife and love seeing my son (4 yrs old)

those where I see a shark. I am an underwater

Where were you before working at the

enjoying it as well!

photographer and have travelled all over the

Shark Trust?

Why did you want to work for the

world taking underwater images. When not

PhD Researcher at Cardiff University

Shark Trust?

under the sea, I try to grow my own veg with

A little about yourself?

I studied Wildlife Conservation and worked

limited success.

I live in South Wales, with my partner

for a previous charity for over a decade, and it

A typical day in your role?

Emma and our two-year-old Bedlington

was important for me to still work for a charity.

My role can be very varied! I manage the social

Whippet cross – Alwyn. I’m a keen birder and

media content, edits to the website, write press

photographer, mainly focusing on wildlife and

releases and try to find ways of reaching a

aerial landscapes. When I’m not outdoors, I

wider audience with the Shark Trust message.

enjoy gaming and watching films.

Why did you want to work for the

Why did you want to work for the

Shark Trust?

Shark Trust?

I have supported the Shark Trust for well

My background is in psychology, and

over a decade now. I always made sure I met

specifically behaviour change / environmental

the team at the dive shows each year, have

psychology. I always knew I wanted to use my

adopted sharks, swum miles in frigid waters,

skills in behaviour change within conservation.

Although I’m in a different role to my previous

held fundraising events and more. So, I

The Shark Trust role was the perfect role for

experience, I loved the idea of taking on a

jumped at the chance to work for my

me - being able to combine my love for video,

new challenge and connecting with a wide

favourite charity and to shout about why

behaviour change and conservation in one job!

range of people who want to support shark

I think they are so brilliant.

Advice for anyone looking to get into the

conservation. I never saw myself working

The best thing about working for the

world of Shark Conservation

within the fundraising sector, but it has turned

Shark Trust?

You do not need a degree in biology or

out to be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable!

To work with such an inspiring team is a real

conservation to get into the world of shark

The best thing about working for the

highlight. They are passionate and dedicated.

conservation! Our team all have different skills

Shark Trust?

To be alongside them as they battle for real

they bring to the table. Conservation needs

We’re a close-knit team, I really admire that

change for sharks, rays and skates over the

a huge variety of skills and interests to work.

we’re a small team, but we achieve a lot and

last 10 months as been a real privilege.

So if your skills are in art, design,

work not only locally but globally as well.

What’s your favourite Shark, Skate

communication, management or statistics

Collaborations and partnerships are important

or Ray?

or anything in-between, there will definitely

to us, We like to work towards a common goal.

The Great Hammerhead Shark.

be roles that are appropriate!

I REALLY ADMIRE THAT WE’RE A SMALL TEAM, BUT WE ACHIEVE A LOT...

14.

YOU DO NOT NEED A DEGREE IN BIOLOGY TO GET INTO SHARK CONSERVATION!

sharktrust.org

Name: James Harris

Name: Harriet Allen

Name: Danny Poulding

Role: Product Owner and Project assistant

Role: Citizen Science Data Officer

Role: Conservation Team Member

How long have you been with the Trust?

How long have you been with the Trust?

How long have you been with the Trust?

9 months

5 months

3 Months

A little about yourself?

Where were you before working at the

A typical day in your role?

Plymouth based and passionate about

Shark Trust?

I’m certainly enjoying finding my feet, putting

anything marine. Biggest hobby is scuba diving

JNCC

my skills to good use and building on my

which I’ve been doing for nearly 20 years

A little about yourself?

knowledge of sharks. My general role will be to

now. You’ll often find me underwater in Devon

I am always looking for an excuse to get

support the Conservation Team in raising the

and Dorset (and abroad from time to time)!

out-doors, I love going on hikes, swimming

profile of sharks in fisheries management and

Some days I’ll be teaching, other days I’ll be

and scuba-diving – I’m very pleased to have

promoting sustainable fisheries.

fun diving, and the rest of the time I’m taking

recently moved to the Southwest, where all

Why did you want to work for the

snaps/vids with my underwater camera.

this is on my doorstep! I love tea and in my

Shark Trust?

A typical day in your role?

downtime I enjoy reading, games or crocheting

My background is in commercial fishing and

Steering the direction of our new mobile

(usually marine animals).

fisheries compliance and training. If there

application (coming this summer) and working

A typical day in your role?

is one thing that threatens sharks above

on several Shark Trust campaigns. One of

I am still pretty new to The Shark Trust,

all else, it’s unsustainable fishing. My skills

which is Sharks International 2022 – the world’s

but a typical day for me would involve

and experience are perfectly placed to help

largest shark conference, taking place in

checking any new entries that have been

promote and improve sustainable fishery

Valencia this October.

submitted to our eggcase database or our

practices and reduce the pressure

Why did you want to work for the

shark/ray sightings database and then looking

on vulnerable shark species.

Shark Trust?

through the data that has been collected over

Advice for anyone looking to get into the

I’m a career changer, I worked in software

the last 20 years and looking for patterns,

world of Shark Conservation

development for nearly 7 years before

trends, hotspots, or anything else interesting

undertaking a MSc in Marine Conservation

that the data might show!

at Plymouth. The ocean has always been my

The best thing about working for the

passion and a couple of years ago I decided I

Shark Trust?

wanted to more to protect it – that’s what I’m

The Shark Trust is a charity that gets things

part of at Shark Trust.

done. For such a small charity the Shark Trust

The best thing about working for the

contributes a lot towards the conservation

Shark Trust?

of shark, skates and rays. It is lovely to work

Being right in the middle of the Shark

with a company and conservationists that

Conservation movement; straddling the worlds

are dedicated to helping with conservation

Don’t give up! It’s a very rewarding area to work

of advocacy, research, and communication and

through legislation and policy, increasing

in. Like securing any great job, you’ll need to

help protect sharks, rays and skates globally.

public awareness and public engagement.

put the time and effort into building up your

Advice for anyone looking to get into the

Advice for anyone looking to get into the

experience, skills and knowledge. Being the

world of Shark Conservation

world of Shark Conservation

best at whatever job you do now will make you

You don’t need to be a marine biologist with

I’m still new to the world of Shark

the ideal candidate for your dream job.

field experience to get involved in shark

Conservation, so I’ll pass on the advice I was

What’s your favourite Shark, Skate

conservation – if you want to help protect

given as a student: don’t give up and don’t

or Ray?

sharks there will be a role that fits your skillset.

be blinkered by following a direct pathway

I’m going with the Cookiecutter Shark, if ever

Reach out and see how you could help out.

towards your “dream” job.

a shark needed a friend, it’s this one!

@SharkTrustUK

BEING THE BEST AT WHATEVER JOB YOU DO NOW WILL MAKE YOU AN IDEAL CANDIDATE

15.

W

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

HABITAT: Pelagic,

Rhincodon typus

open ocean to close,

MAXIMUM SIZE: 18.8m DIET: Filter feeders.

Mainly plankton and © FROGFISH PHOTOGRAPHY

H

occasionally fish eggs.

in-shore beaches, coral reefs and islands. Preferred temperature is 21-25°c but Whales Sharks

DISTRIBUTION:

dive to depths of up to

Worldwide in tropical

1928m, where water is

and warm temperate seas (except the Mediterranean).

much cooler.

STATUS: Endangered

A

L

E

S

H

A

R

K

FUN draising

FABULOUS FUNDRAISERS

LOOKING AHEAD IN 2022...

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

“

YOU ARE A KEY PART OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE...

18.

1.

2.

You could take part in a fundraising event – check out the events on our website www.sharktrust.org/events If fundraising events aren’t your thing, consider leaving a legacy in your will.

We’ve joined up with Farewill and have several FREE (yes, free!) wills available.

Details can be found on our website by searching ‘leave a legacy of hope’.

Or simply you could set up a regular donation All these things small and big help hugely, and you are a key part of making a difference and standing up for sharks.

By protecting sharks, it also helps restore ocean health. Priceless for us all.

If you would like to know more about different fundraising opportunities, please get in touch via enquiries@sharktrust.org – we’d be delighted to hear from you.

3.

We’ve had all sorts of fundraising activities over the years. From sponsored walks to bake sales. But anything goes - so why not try something new and feature in the next issue of Focus? Sponsored unicycling anyone?

sharktrust.org/fundraise

© KELLY ELIASON; KAI BLOSSOM; ORCA SPORTSWEAR; AUSTIN BAN

T

hanks to all the incredible fundraisers taking on challenges for sharks this year and all the years since our inception! From running 100k, to hiking through the beautiful peak district, diving with sharks, and carrying out presentations at school. All you do to make a difference to sharks and it’s incredible and inspiring! We’re so grateful for all the support, dedication, and passion each one of you show.

Thank you, we couldn’t do this without you.

Feeling inspired here’s how you can support critical shark conservation

SHARK talk

ALI HOOD DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION

SO MUCH of the story of shark Oceanic Whitetip gliding in the ocean

conservation over recent decades, and mirrored by the experience of the Shark Trust over its 25 years, is about persistence. The species we seek to manage, to protect, might well be long lived, but the time required to move legislative processes can often seem interminable.

Plagued with knock-backs, u-turns and all too often a total disregard for scientific advice.

So, often we need to persist. To be consistent in our messaging and objectives, but to refine our actions as opportunities arise. To be patient (but not too patient), to maintain pressure and presence, and to hold the line.

To engage for the long run. As hanging in there can be worth it!

Let’s take shark finning. It took over 6 years of campaigning to tighten the EU finning regulation and secure fins naturally attached as best practice for the EU fleet. Well over 12 years if you start the clock when the Trust launched the campaign for the initial 2003 EU finning regulation, a regulation adopted with too many loopholes to prove really effective. But in securing fins attached in 2013, the EU went on to set a standard for itself, committing to championing this practice in high-seas waters, and with some success, with several high-seas bodies following suit (others still to follow).

Another long journey was the North Atlantic Shortfin Mako – a species in the spotlight over the past few years and one of our most recent campaign successes! But the first scientific advice for the Atlantic mako was issued in 2004. A massive thank you to all of you who joined us through the No Limits! campaign

© SEAN CHINN

and helped push this over the line. Over the Trust’s lifetime we’ve sought and secured management for a great diversity of sharks and rays, and few of these results came without their challenges! sharktrust.org/fundraise

Persistence: /pə’ˈsiɪst(ə)ns/ noun: the fact of continuing in an opinion or course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

“

I TAKE THIS 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION AS AN OPPORTUNITY TO RECOGNISE WHAT THE SHARK TRUST TEAM HAS ACHIEVED

So, I take this 25th anniversary edition of Shark Focus as an opportunity to recognise what the Shark Trust Team has achieved over the years. To thank our supporters, friends and colleagues - who have stood together with us to secure change and hold others to account for their conservation commitments! And, I’m especially excited to see what comes next!

But remember: if at first you don’t succeed...

19.

SHARK talk

PAUL COX Divers are invited to take part in the Great Shark Snapshot

MANAGING DIRECTOR

A LIFETIME ago, when I was a student with a weekend job at the National Marine Aquarium, I went for a lunchtime walk and saw a tiny office with a “Shark Trust” sticker on the window. Intrigued, I poked my head in and found one of my fellow marine biology students sat behind a desk. She gave me a 5-minute introduction to the voluntary work she was doing. A few days later I joined her to help out for a day. And so began my interest in the Shark Trust.

Having left university, I took up a full-time job at the aquarium. Not least because the office was right next door, but also because we partnered with the Trust on several projects, I learnt more and more about the work of the Trust. We hosted displays within the aquarium, encountered team members at various events and shows. It always amazed me how much they seemed to achieve with so few people.

I was convinced that there must be another office somewhere.

I followed the work of the Trust closely over 15 years. For some of those years, I was lucky enough to join the Board of Trustees and get much closer to what they were doing. I watched in awe through the years of the Shark Alliance, the landmark achievement of the EU Finning Regulation and the launch of No

Paul has ran the London Marathon for Shark Trust

“

I’M SO PROUD TO WORK FOR THIS CHARITY, WITH THE PEOPLE THAT SURROUND ME

”

Limits? And, like so many others, I searched for

as a shark conservation charity. The way that

eggcases on the local beaches.

we mix the serious policy work with the fun of

So, when I got the opportunity to apply for

citizen science. The way we put collaboration

a job with the Trust, it was an easy decision.

and partnership at the forefront of our

Why would I not want to get involved? That

thinking. And the way that we consistently

was seven years ago when the Trust was still in

look for solutions rather than get stuck on

it’s teenage years. Now we’re fully grown and

problems. But I think that our membership

we’re celebrating our 25th anniversary. I’m so

base is probably the most special. Some of

proud to work for this charity, with the people

you reading this have had even longer

that surround me. It’s never easy, it’s never

journeys than me with the Trust. And

straightforward but it’s always rewarding.

you’re still here, supporting our work.

There are many things special about us

20.

© FROGFISH PHOTOGRAPHY

we collected petition signatures and we

That’s something to be thankful for. sharktrust.org

PROJECT update SHARK LOG NEW LOOK With the creation of the Great Shark Snapshot, we thought it was a good time to update our Shark Log – sightings database logo! Check out the new logo!

THE GREAT SHARK SNAPSHOT We have launched a brand-new project for 2022! The Great Shark Snapshot will see

PROJECT UPDATES:

divers, dive centres, liveaboards and eco-tourism operators from all around the world taking part in a week-long sightings survey for sharks, skates and rays! dive group or centre. For those on dry land, why not take part in the Great Eggcase

GOING DIGITAL – SHARK FOCUS AND ADOPTIONS

Hunt, and help add to our ever growing database of egg records!

Our ever-popular adoptions are going digital!

If you want to take part, then scan the QR code to find your nearest participating

All data collected from the Great Shark Snapshot and Great Eggcase Hunt

We’ve refreshed our adoption packs for digital,

goes into The Shark Log, our database of sightings that’s used to aid research and

offering an interactive adoption pack and

conservation action planning all over the world.

exclusive digital downloads. This means that everyone outside the UK now has a chance to purchase an adoption and those in the UK can choose digital over physical packs to save paper and transport emissions!

On top of this, our members who receive digital copies of Shark Focus may have noticed a slightly different look to the magazine. We are now using a new platform that allows for videos, buttons and links to be added more easily. You can try it out by clicking the QR codes throughout the magazine!

SCAN THE QR CODE To go to our adoption page

SHARK HEADS We are proud to announce a new offering for any groups, clubs or schools that want to learn more about shark conservation. Shark Heads is a 60-minute, live and interactive show that is sure to inspire and engage everyone with sharks! The show is more than just a video presentation, with a total focus on audience participation. If you want to find out more and host your own Shark Heads event then head to the link using the QR code!

SCAN THE QR CODE To find your nearest participating centre

SCAN THE QR CODE To find out more about Shark Heads

sharktrust.org

21.

DIVE SHARKS A long

into

In celebration of our 25th Anniversary, Sarah Fowler, Trustee and Founder of the Shark Trust, tells us what started her passion for sharks, and the origins of the Shark Trust.

22.

remotely interested in the subject. As a result, readers began asking how they could join the SSG. It was difficult and discouraging to explain that they couldn’t: IUCN Specialist Groups are appointed by invitation, issued very sparingly to a few national experts in the field. They are not sent out to students or to members of the public. Meanwhile, European shark researchers were longing for a European scientific society, modelled on the American

“

I WAS STILL TALKING TOO MUCH, TOO OFTEN...

ABOUT THE ESCALATING THREATS TO SHARKS...

”

Elasmobranch Society. Something clearly needed to be done to meet this rising demand for a public membership shark conservation organization, and also to create a forum for collaboration by European shark researchers.

Scottish Natural Heritage came to our rescue by providing a grant to set up a dedicated shark organisation. However, we had no idea what this body would look like, or whether there was truly sufficient demand to make it viable in the long term. One feasibility

© XXXXXXXX

A

s a child, I was fascinated by the sea and spent my happiest holiday hours on the shore or in a boat. I remember the amazement one summer of finding gigantic washed-up carcasses of bycaught stingrays. Naturally, this led to studying marine zoology at university, followed by an MSc in Conservation. My practical shark and ray conservation efforts began in my first job at the former Nature Conservancy Council, the government’s conservation advisor. I was so lucky to be appointed to this dream job, but it took years of effort to persuade the UK legally to protect some of its most threatened sharks (perhaps I just wasn’t very good…).

Several years later, in a different job, I was still talking far too much, too often, to colleagues about the escalating threats to sharks, particularly due to the rising demand for shark fin soup in East Asia. That led to a totally unexpected invitation in 1991 to become a founding member of the newly established IUCN Shark Specialist Group (SSG). I honestly knew very little about sharks, particularly compared with the real expert members, but I volunteered to do some administration and communication work. This included starting the SSG’s black and white, printed, Shark News.

I posted Shark News out to anyone even

Sarah’s favourite species - the Spotted Eagle Ray which featured

sharktrust.org

Left: Sarah Fowler as a budding marine conservationist Below: Sarah at her first meeting of the IUCN SSG in 1991

Left: Issue 1 of Shark Focus, first produced in 1998 Right: Shark Focus 25 years later

© XXXXXXXX

W

d on Issue 68’s front cover

@SharkTrustUK

e wanted the UK member of the EEA to be a registered Charity (which takes a while longer to set up) giving us time to settle upon the right name. We ruled out several words that might appear to be too exclusive or specialist (chondrichthyan, elasmobranch, scientific, society, and conservation were among these).

Trustees were identified who were prepared to volunteer to guide the first steps of this fledging body. And thus, the Shark Trust was born!

Initially, both the EEA and the Shark Trust were based in a corner of my office in Newbury. However, as planned, the Shark Trust’s membership grew until it became big enough to stand on its own feet, employ dedicated staff and move to its own office in Plymouth (carrying the EEA files along with it). I stepped down as director and became a Trustee.

From this privileged position, it has been a joy to watch the Shark Trust and EEA grow and become more engaged in shark conservation, management, advice aand public outreach. This has not been confined to the UK, Europe and Mediterranean, but more widely through advocacy work in Regional Fishery Bodies, and internationally at CITES and CMS. It is fantastic to see a growing community of researchers and supporters so actively engaged in everything from collaborative scientific research projects and citizen science, to education and outreach, spreading the word and helping to improve the future for sharks, at home and all over the world.

© FROGFISH PHOTOGRAPHY

study later, including wide consultation with other NGOs, European shark experts and even the European Commission, we had agreed to set up the European Elasmobranch Association (EEA). This would be an umbrella-body for like-minded scientists from all over Europe, and would have no more than one national EEA member organisation in each country. This structure would solve most of the potential problems that might be caused by different languages, cultures and legal frameworks across Europe and allow scientists in each country to work towards common goals, as well as focusing on their own national priorities and interests. It would also prevent several NGOs from just one country from swamping the EEA.

In recognition of her shark conservation work, Sarah was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to marine conservation in 2004.

23.

CREATURE FEATURE

PORT JACKSON SHARK SCIENTIFIC NAME:

eterodontiformes also

dwellers. Their front

known as bullhead sharks

teeth are small, sharp

are an ancient order that

and pointed. They can

are now represented by

eat and breathe at

one family . This month

the same time. This

we’re showing off one of the

is unusual for sharks,

bullhead sharks, the Port Jackson Shark. This

as most species need

species was first documented in Port Jackson,

to swim with their

the inlet containing Sydney Harbour, Australia.

mouths open to force

Grey to light-brown, they have a distinct

water over gills. Port

“

Jackson’s can pump

which links around to their backs. Nocturnal,

water through their first

they rest by day, often in groups in or near

gill slit allowing them to

caves – foraging during the night.

remain still on the seafloor for long periods.

An unusual feature of the Port Jackson Shark

and life stage. They’re migratory within their

is their spiral shaped eggs. Females can wedge

range. And they have complicated seasonal

them into cracks and crevices where they are

breeding migrations.

held in place by the corkscrew-like grooves.

Their teeth are different in the front and back.

Listed as least concern by the IUCN. The Port

Their back teeth are flat and blunt, perfect for

Jackson Shark is abundant. Whilst it is taken

grinding and crushing the shells of their prey .

as bycatch by fisheries, it’s of no value for food

They eat crabs, shrimp, squid and other bottom

and so most are returned alive.

24.

FAMILY: Heterodontidae

THEY HAVE A DISTINCT ‘HARNESS’ MARKING - A STRIPE ACROSS THE EYES WHICH LINKS ROUND TO THEIR BACKS

’harness’ marking - a stripe across the eyes

They live in separate groups based on sex,

portusjacksoni

”

MAXIMUM SIZE: 165cm DIET: Bottom-dwelling invertebrates and small fishes HABITAT: Intertidal to at least 275m. Sandy caves, gullies and sandy bottoms next to rocky reefs DISTRIBUTION: Australia STATUS: Least Concern

sharktrust.org

© IAN DONATO

H

Heterodontus

Sandtiger Shark

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE The sharks of the family Heterodontiformes have shared characteristics. They all have blunt, pig-like snouts and small mouths in front of their eyes. But two of the species are particularly hard to distinguish.

Port Jackson Shark

THE PORT JACKSON Shark is

between the species. Telling

easily confused with the very

them apart isn’t too difficult.

similar looking Crested Horn

Both species have ridges

Shark. The Crested Horn Shark

above their eyes. The Crested

is slightly rarer. Whilst the Port

Horn Shark ridge drops at

Jackson Shark is distributed

almost a right angle behind

across the Southwestern,

the eye. However, on the Port

Southern and Southeastern

Jackson, it tapers behind the

coasts of Australia. The Crested

eye along the top of the head.

Horn Shark is only found on

Additionally, the patterning

the Eastern coast of Australia.

on the Port Jackson is quite

This overlap means that in

distinct and meet above the

some places – you have a

pectoral fin to form a triangle.

chance at seeing both the

However on the Crested Horn

species at once.

Shark they look less distinct,

This means that when

ACTIVITY BUNDLE

and more like smudges.

collecting data, taking photos

If you get a good enough

or studying the species, it’s

view, the anal fins of the

really important to make sure

Crested Horn Shark tend to

you know the differences

be more rounded too!

Crested Horn Shark

We’re pleased to announce that our partners at The Great Out-tours have created the Port Jackson Shark!

SCAN THE QR CODE To check

it out!

@SharkTrustUK

© DIRK VAN DER HEIDE / SHUTTERSTOCK

a £1 activity bundle featuring

25.

WHAT DOES A ‘TYPICAL’ WORKING DAY LOOK LIKE?

A typical working day is pretty low key and quiet. My “regular” day job is remote and somewhat flexible - a big benefit of this is being able to work from my art space and easily switch to working on artwork between tasks or on breaks.

Before I start on artwork, I always try to do a little drawing or sketching to warm up.

Stippling is the main form of art that I do, and it is very time consuming. A single piece can day several days or even sometimes weeks. If I am starting a new piece, I will do some research, which can be anything from looking for reference photos to looking through publications and research papers if 26.

I am working on a piece with a conservation message. Then throughout the day, I work on a piece and try to take time and make sure the values and gradients are to my liking. I also check my website, and pack any sticker or small print orders that may come in.

There are also many atypical days throughout the year that involve teaching art classes for children, volunteering as a naturalist on whale watch trips, or doing beach clean-ups.

“

STIPPLING IS TIME CONSUMING A SINGLE PIECE CANTAKE SEVERAL DAYS OR EVEN WEEKS

”

involving marine wildlife are all things that I am very grateful for. I am a pretty introverted person, so I would say that the best thing about my job is being able to work independently.

HIGHS – WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?

LOWS – WHAT’S THE WORST THING

There are many great things about my career.

Being able to pick the music to listen to in the “office,” and getting to do creative work

ABOUT YOUR JOB?

Although working independently is great, there are also some drawbacks to that. sharktrust.org/careers

TOP 3

TIPS

Stippled pieces are made up of many dots to create depth and shading

FOR GETTING INTO

ART 1

KEEP A SKETCHBOOK From quick little

still life sketches to getting an idea into a sketch on paper, drawing something every day is a great way to keep your creative juices flowing.

I like to keep both a full size sketchbook at home, and a pocket size

Tracie about to start a new piece

sketchbook in my bag to get a little drawing in as much as I can.

NAME: Tracie Megumi

WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WISH YOU’D

JOB TITLE &

KNOWN STARTING OUT?

ORGANISATION:

This is a hard one. I think I wish I knew the importance of pacing myself, and not overworking myself. Sometimes when I take on art commissions, volunteer work and other projects on top of my normal workload, I put a lot more on my plate than I realize.

Artist and Naturalist, Tracie Megumi Art

Sometimes it can get lonely, especially when there are longer periods between volunteering and events. I suppose that aspect of working independently may also be the “low.”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE THIS CAREER?

I have always had an interest in art, and an interest in marine wildlife. I think where I am now came from a very natural progression.

Initially, combining those two interests started out with making jewelry; I used to create digital illustrations and make acrylic charms of them. As I went on and learned more about conservation issues and the problems associated with plastic, I shifted to working with traditional mediums and found a sharktrust.org/careers

comfortable place with ink and pens. I feel that this move was definitely the right thing to do, and allowed my creativity and skills to grow.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE JUST STARTING OUT ON THIS CAREER PATH?

The advice I would give would be to have a good support system, and to maintain a healthy self-care regimen. Burn out and eco-anxiety are very real things, and are not fun to go through. I think it is important to avoid overworking yourself, and to be a part of a community with like-minded people who are also ocean advocates. It is easy to feel like your efforts alone are just a drop in the bucket, but together with the combined efforts of others you can be an ocean.

2

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

Creative skills takes patience and practice.

Whether you are new or have some experience in art, it is important to keep practicing drawing and shading different shapes and subjects.

3

TAKE YOUR TIME It’s important to take time when

coming up with a first draft for an art piece.

When I start an initial sketch, I like to put it up on a wall and look at it from far away, and look at it in a mirror (so that the image is flipped) to assess it from all sorts of angles and perspectives.

It is much easier to make corrections at an early stage, than to try to do them halfway through.

To see more of Tracie’s work – check out her instagram: @traciemegumi

27.

STARS

MAZE

CLUB

PUPS

CLUB

PUPS

Can you get the Pelagic Thresher Shark through the maze and out the other side? Answers on Page: 28

Well done to ALFIE (aged 5) who poster! His poster shows a plastic

30 by 20 orthogonal maze

has made a fantastic “Save the Sharks” bottle, a plastic bag and a discarded

fishing net all littering the ocean and threatening the shark. Alfie has even

done a show and tell to his class about the Shark Trust! Thanks Alfie for all the support and for spreading the news about Sharks!

Thank you to GREER (aged 10) who held a sale of crafts and toys outside her house during the Easter holidays!

She managed to raise a whopping £99.07! Greer also told people about the work of the Shark Trust and raised awareness about Sharks! Absolutely amazing, thank you from everyone at the Shark Trust Greer!

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sharktrust.org

BLUE SHARK BLUEBERRY SMOOTHIE

BLUE SHARK FACT FILE

These blueberry smoothies are inspired by the majestic Blue Shark!

A healthy breakfast or a snack for on the go! Make sure to get help

© TERI VIRBICKIS / SHUTTERSTOCK; PETER DE MAAGT

from an adult for this recipe!

Serves 1-2 People Ingredients 175g of Frozen Blueberries, 1 x banana (sliced) 100ml Milk, Oat Milk, Almond Milk or any other milk alternative 1 tbsp of Greek Yoghurt or Yoghurt alternative Method 1. Stick all the ingredients into a blender (or bowl if you’re using a hand blender).

Blitz with the blender until smooth. Add a splash of water if it’s a bit too thick!

The BL UE

SHARK is a very cool

shark. It has the big

gest migration of any shark! Migration is wh en animals move around from one pla ce to another – usually moving around with the BLUE SHARKS can tra seasons. vel a whopping 90 00 KM (5500miles) a year! Not only tha t, but BL UE SHARKS have a torpedo-l ike body, which means they can swim at up to 39KPH (24mph)!

2. Pour the finished smoothie into a glass and sprinkle a few blueberries on top!

@SharkTrustUK

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F O R E T T A M A

E Z I S Did you know the biggest shark on the planet

there aren’t many predators capable of eating

is the Whale Shark? Whale Sharks can be up

a whale shark. Some young or ill whale sharks

to around 10 meters long! The biggest Whale

can be preyed upon by White Sharks or Tiger

Shark ever measured was an unbelievable 18.8

Sharks. But a fully-grown healthy adult has

meters!

little to fear.

The whale shark feeds on tiny microscopic

The Whale Shark’s amazing pattern is just

animals called plankton. The food it eats is so

like our fingerprints. They are unique to every

small, that it has to eat 21kg of plankton a day.

single shark, meaning using photos we can

Being so big has its advantages. For one thing

keep track of where certain sharks have been!

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HAVE ONE PERSON STAND AND ACT AS THE NOSE OF THE WHALE SHARK, THE OTHER PERSON WALKS AS FAR AWAY AS THEY THINK IS 18.8M (THE BIGGEST EVER WHALE SHARK). LEAVE A MARKER (A COIN) AND SWAP AROUND. THEN MEASURE OUT THE DISTANCES! WHOEVER IS CLOSER TO 18.8M WINS! sharktrust.org

© XXXXXXXX

BIG

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE!

E

ACTUAL SIZE!!

One of the smallest sharks on the planet is the Dwarf Lantern Shark. You can see just how small it is – because its smaller than the page of this magazine! This shark is really small! When born they are only around 6cm long! Then when they are fully grown they are around 20cm! They live in deep water.

Between 230 and 530 meters underwater.

They are rare and very little is known about them. However, like all Lantern Sharks, they light up. You read that right. This little shark has special organs (called photophores) on its belly and fins. These organs can light up animals in the darkness of the deep water. The sharks then prey upon the small animals! They also have pretty big eyes (for sharks at least), meaning that they can see in the dark and

SOLVED MAZE: Did you crack the maze and get the Pelagic Thresher Shark out the other side? Here is the solution to the Maze on page 28

30 by 20 orthogonal maze - Solution

and give off a glow! This light attracts small

The Dwarf Lantern Shark, the smallest shark that even lights up!

Copyright © 2022 Alance AB, https://www.mazegenerator.net/

COVER © PAUL COWELL / SHUTTERSTOCK © KRZYSZTOF ODZIOMEK / SHUTTERSTOCK; JAVONTAEVIOUS / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

SMALLEST

deep waters they live in. @SharkTrustUK

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