Shark Nets Are Hurting Whales. Australia Must Use Alternate Shark Deterrents!
The idea behind shark nets is that they’re supposed to keep humans safe. But not only are shark nets not as protective as some people might think — they’re also bad for all sorts of animals, including whales! This is becoming especially true in Queensland, Australia. In just one week during early July, three whales got tangled up in shark nets off the coast of Queensland. Meanwhile, there are other scientifically verified, humane ways to deter sharks from coming close to land. So why are authorities so determined to keep cruel, indiscriminate shark nets around?
Many different types of whales live and swim in the waters around Australia. So far, humpback whales have been most traumatized and devastated by shark net entanglements. But researchers have also noticed one southern right whale and a baby calf in the area recently. Only around 3,500 southern right whales are left alive in the ocean! So if one of them were to be caught in a shark net, it could have terrible consequences. Safer, more reliable shark detection and deterrent technologies exist. So why aren’t all Australian states using them? Tell the Australian government that it’s time to get rid of shark nets and employ alternative methods now!