Shot on assignment for the Save Our Seas Foundation in False Bay, outside Cape Town in South Africa, this story explores the unique relationship between marine wilderness and a burgeoning population. False Bay is an ecological hotspot for sharks, boasting 27 different species. The most famous, the great white shark, has given False Bay its tenuous reputation with tourists, surfers, divers and residents. They have been well-documented launching out of the water while pursuing their favorite prey, cape fur seals. During the summer, when the waters get warmer sharks of all species leave seal island and move further inshore in search of schools of fish in the shallows. Inevitably, with an increasing number of water users, negative interactions between sharks and people do occur. Sharks are an important part of the marine ecosystem, acting as keystone species that maintains balance in the food chain. In order to keep people safe and sharks safe, South Africa has adopted a unique program partially funded by the Save Our Seas Foundation called Shark Spotters. Giving full time jobs to men and women from the townships, the Shark Spotters stay vigilant atop the mountains looking for sharks in the shallows to alert swimmers and water users with a system of flags. What has resulted is an increasing awareness of shark education and cultural sensitivity and a pride for this grassroots conservation effort. This story was published in the Summer edition of the Save Our Seas Magazine. For an interactive feature visit:
Sharks Safe People Safe or for the full online magazine visit
Save Our Seas Volume 3
