BASKING SHARK

Cetorhinus maximus

Species at Risk Act Status Status: NO STATUS

COSEWIC Status: SPECIAL CONCERN

Length: 10 m / 32 ft

Key Identification Features:

Greyish-brown often with mottled appearance

Large conical snout

First dorsal fin is rounded on top, set further back on body and at a 45° degree angle

Five massive gill slits that almost encircle the head

“Thanks so much - we have received your photos and videos. This looks like a group of basking sharks to us, and they are exhibiting normal basking shark behaviour. Please let us know if anything dramatic changes in their behaviour if you are remaining in the area.”

Best,

Hannah