SUBJECT: # 40033: Whale Sharks in the Gulf of Mexico

Submitted by Jennifer McKinney (131.95.240.110) from MISSISSIPPI on 9/4/2008 5:19:00 PM

Scientists at the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory are studying whale sharks in the northern Gulf of Mexico. If you encounter a whale, please participate in the ONLINE WHALE SHARK SIGHTINGS SURVEY. You can help us learn more about the occurrence and distribution of whale sharks in the region.

To Report a Sighting:
Please complete the survey at http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/whaleshark

Information that is helpful to us includes:

• Time and duration of encounter
• Location (GPS coordinates)
• Approximate size and number of sharks
• Observed behavior
• Associated species
• Photos/video (especially of the region behind the gill slits on the left side of the animal—this is used for identification)
• Any other distinguishing features (i.e. numbered marker tags located behind the dorsal fin—please notate number)

Your participation is vital to us gaining a better understanding of their movements and habitat use patterns in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Thank you.

1. 9/6/2008 11:57:00 PM Submitted by MikeF from FL says also
   While your reporting let me know if there are any tuna in the area. Kind and quantity would be appreciated. GPS co-ordinates wouldn't hurt.

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2. 9/13/2008 2:56:00 AM Submitted by Spooled Again from OTHER says Spotted
   ...whale sharks last weekend. Here in the Persian Gulf whilst on a dive trip. Three bigguns (30') and a cupple smallish ones (10'). No tuna though. Sorry!

   SA

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