The basking shark is a gentle giant that filter-feeds on plankton near the surface. It is a summer visitor to coasts such as those of Britain and Ireland and a favourite of wildlife watchers.
Interesting facts
- Despite its size, it eats only tiny plankton.
- Its mouth can open about 1 metre wide.
- Basking sharks are named for their habit of feeding slowly at the surface, as if basking in the sun.
- They can leap completely out of the water.
- Their huge liver was once prized for its oil, and they were hunted heavily.
- They are protected in UK and EU waters.
Behaviour
Basking sharks swim slowly with their mouths open, sometimes in groups. They follow plankton blooms along fronts and coasts.
Breeding and young
Little is known. Females probably give birth to live young after a long gestation, and the species breeds very slowly.
Threats and conservation
Past hunting, accidental capture in fishing gear, collisions with boats and disturbance.
Where to see it
- Coll, Tiree and the Hebrides, Scotland (June to September)
- Cornwall, England, especially around Porthcurno
- Isle of Man
- Malin Head, Ireland
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Scotland Wildlife Guide: Red Deer, Otters, Eagles and Puffins
