Shark at Villasimius in Sardinia: sightings, curiosities and safety at sea
Many associate the Sardinia to dream beaches and crystal-clear sea, but not everyone knows that even here it can happen to sighting one shark. In recent years, some reports have made the headlines, especially when there was talk of a possible white shark or other species rare. This article was written to tell you the truth about the shark sightingsexplain which shark species live in the Mediterranean Seahow to behave in the event of an encounter and why, despite the media alarm, the real risk for the bathers remains minimal.
Sharks in Sardinia: what you need to know
La Sardinia is surrounded by a sea rich in biodiversity and there is no shortage of species of sharks. Most are harmless and live far from the coastin the open sea. Every now and then, however, it can happen sighting a exemplary near the shoreespecially when pushed by currents or in search of food. The shark sightings are generally rarebut they always arouse curiosity and some panic media.
The shark at Villasimius in Sardinia: recent history
The news of a Shark at Villasimius in Sardinia quickly made its way around the web. L'sighting occurred along the south-east coast of Sardiniain an area of clear sea rich in fish. According to the expertsit was probably a blue shark, a common shark in the Mediterranean Sea which can reach several metres in lengthbut rarely comes too close to the beach. L'exemplary observed seemed calm and did not display any predator in hunting.
Which shark species live in the Mediterranean?
In Mediterranean Sea live more than 40 shark speciessome of which are also present along the coast of Sardinia. Among the best known are the blue shark, I thresher sharkthe mako and, very rarely, the white shark. The latter is a predator fascinating but extremely rare in our waters, sighted on only a few occasions in recent decades. Many of the sharks present are small and feed mainly on fish and small prey marines.
How to Spot a Shark Safely
Spotting one shark does not mean being in danger. Most encounters take place at metres distance from the shore and without consequences. It is important to remain calm, not approach l'animal and immediately notify the authorities or the coast guard. Often the shark will spontaneously move away after a few minutes. If you happen to see one, consider yourself lucky enough to have observed a exemplary fascinating and rare in its natural habitat.
Blue shark: the most common shark in Italian waters
La blue shark is probably the most widespread shark in the Mediterranean. It has a slender body, can reach three metres in length and prefers the open sea. It feeds on fish and squid and rarely poses a danger to the bathers. Despite its appearance as predator, is a species shy and tends to avoid contact with humans. The shark sightings in Italy often include this very species.
Sharks in Italy: where most sightings are recorded
The shark sightings in Italy are not limited to the Sardinia. La Sicily, the coast Tyrrhenian Sea and some areas of the Adriatic Sea register occasional reports. Some specimens are found accidentally in the nets from fishing or near the beaches after storms. Among the best known areas are Porto Ferro in Sardinia, Stintinoand some features of the east coast.
Why do sharks approach the coast?
One shark can approach the coast for several reasons: sea currents, abundance of preydisease or simple passage during a migration. In rare cases, young specimens may approach out of curiosity. Some species as the mako or the blue shark can be spotted along the south-east coast of Sardinia, especially at times when there are more fish.
Shark attacks: myth or reality?
The attachments of sharks in the Mediterranean are extremely rare. The probability of being bitten by one shark while bathing in Sardinia is practically nil. Statistics show that there have been very few cases in Italy in the last 100 years, and often these were exceptional circumstances. Most of the sharks in Italy does not consider man a prey.
What to do if you see a shark
If you happen to sighting one shark While in the water, the golden rule is to remain calm. Avoid sudden movements, do not try to approach or touch theanimal and back to the beach with slow movements. Report thesighting can help to register data useful for research and preservation of species.
The role of sharks in the marine ecosystem
Sharks are predators fundamental to maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem. They regulate populations of fish, they control the favourite prey and ensure the health of the habitat. Protecting them also means safeguarding the beauty of our sea. Some species are today at risk of extinction and they need protection.
FAQ
Which sharks live in Sardinia?
In Sardinia you can find species such as the blue shark, I thresher sharkthe mako and, very rarely, the white shark.
Is the white shark present in the Mediterranean?
Yes, but it is extremely rare. Sightings are sporadic and the animal mostly lives in the open sea.
Was the shark in Villasimius dangerous?
No, it was probably a blue sharka shy species that poses no risk to the bathers.
What should I do if I see a shark near the shore?
Keep calm, do not approach and immediately alert the coast guard.
Do sharks attack people in Sardinia?
The attachments are extremely rare and there is no real danger to bathers.
Why do sharks approach the coast?
For reasons related to currents, the search for food or simple migratory passage.
What does a shark eat in the Mediterranean?
It feeds on fishsquid and other small marine prey.
Is the blue shark dangerous?
No, it is a species shy and not very aggressive towards humans.
How are shark sightings recorded?
Reports are collected by local authorities and researchers to monitor the presence of the species.
Is it safe to swim in Sardinia?
Absolutely, the sea of Sardinia is safe and the shark sightings are exceptional events.
