IoM basking shark sightings down

Only nine sharks have been spotted around the Isle of Man this summer.

The number of basking sharks spotted around the Manx coast has fallen significantly, according to scientists. 

Manx Basking Shark Watch (MBSW) said there has only been nine recorded sightings this summer, compared with hundreds in previous years.

Coordinators, Jackie and Graham Hall, told ITV News that they have several theories as to why, including natural variation, climate change or man made interference- such as windfarms and increased boat activity.

Meanwhile researchers from Ireland have recorded hundreds of sharks engaged in courtship behaviour off the coast of County Clare in the Atlantic.

In a report by RTE, Dr Simon Berrow from the Irish Basking Shark Group (IBSG) described "tight groups sharks going around in circles in an orchestrated circular motion". 

Irish and Manx scientists have joined an international group calling for increased protection of basking sharks.