Seaquest Basking Shark Project Summer 2008

Basking Shark photograph by Colin Speedie

About the project

This is a new BBC Wildlife Fund-supported project which aims to improve protection for basking sharks around Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. We are joining forces with SeaWatch SW to collect vital data on basking shark distribution and behaviour, to inform conservation action. At the same time we will be collecting data on all the other marine megafauna, including dolphins, sunfish and turtles.

How You Can Get Involved

Initially we are calling for volunteers to conduct effort-based surveys from Gwennap Head from the 15th June until 30th June. Any time that you could contribute to our project; from an entire week to one day a week would be greatly appreciated. Please do not worry if these dates are unsuitable as we will be running more surveys later in the summer, so there will be plenty of opportunities to get involved.

If you would prefer to conduct surveys in your own patch, we would be delighted to provide you with recording forms, identification guides and health and safety guidelines.

If you are over 16 and interested in spending some time sitting on the cliffs recording basking sharks and other marine life join Cornwall Wildlife Trust and SeaWatch SW this summer. Previous experience is useful but not essential as training can be provided. For further information on how to get involved contact Lauren Davis on 07500 080 385 or email lauren@cornwt.demon.co.uk.

Other pages on this web site that may be of interest:

• Basking Sharks (Cetorhinus maximus) in Cornwall
• Seaquest South-West