Sharks of Kent project tags sharks off Kent coast
Scientists in Kent are tagging sharks to learn more about their movements and behaviour in local waters.
The Full Story
A plain summary built from the channels that reported this story.
Scientists in Kent have launched a new project to better understand the sharks that swim in the waters off the county's coast. The project, called Sharks of Kent, aims to tag and study sharks to gather data on their movements, growth and behaviour. Researchers say the area is likely an important nursery and pupping ground for several species, including the starry smooth hound shark.
The project works by catching sharks, weighing them, and, if they are large enough, attaching a tag. When the shark is caught again, the tag helps scientists work out how much it has grown, where it has travelled, and what it has been doing. The team has trained local charter boats, such as Better Day Charters, to tag sharks during normal fishing trips. Skipper Daniel and one of his regular anglers, Ben, are part of the effort. Ben said he is fascinated by what is down there and recognises the importance of sharks to the whole food chain.
Two graduates from Kent have also joined the project, saying it is hard to find marine jobs close to home that are also hands-on. On one recent trip, 31 sharks were caught and 11 were tagged. Each tagged animal will now help scientists understand how best to protect these important species.
There are more than 40 species of sharks in UK waters, and half of those are under threat from extinction. The researchers hope their work in Kent will shed light on the role these coastal areas play in the sharks' early development before they head out to sea.
On screen
Stills are sampled automatically at 60-second intervals. Where shown, the still is the nearest available frame from the relevant broadcast segment and is included to show what was on screen during that part of the broadcast. A still may not correspond to the exact second of a quoted phrase.
Key Claims
Claims reported during this story's coverage, mapped by channel. Ordered by how many channels carried each claim.
| Claim | BBC One |
|---|---|
| A recent expedition caught 31 sharks and tagged 11. | |
| Half of UK shark species are under threat of extinction. | |
| More than 40 species of sharks are found in UK waters. |
Channel Perspectives
What each channel focused on, with key quotes.
The report focused on the significance of sharks in UK waters, the conservation angle, and the community involvement in the tagging project. It highlighted the enthusiasm of the scientists and volunteers, while also stressing the threat facing many shark species. The tone was positive and educational, ending on a hopeful note about the research.
- “Sharks are incredible. They've actually been around for over 400 million years.”
- “In Kent, we actually think it's a really important nursery and popping ground.”
- “On this day, 31 sharks were caught and 11 of them were tagged.”
Broadcast Timeline
News broadcasts tracked for this story, in time order.