Cetorhinus maximus (Basking Shark)
Basking Sharks are found in the coastal waters surrounding the islands of the Outer Hebrides between May and October.
Further Information
Shark Trust Fact Sheet
Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust Fact Sheet
Bern Convention Appendix 2
IUCN (2001) - Vulnerable
OSPAR Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic.
Scottish Biodiversity List: Species of Principal Conservation Importance in Scotland
Basking sharks were once fished commercially on a small scale around Scotland for their huge livers, which contain oils formerly used in various industries. The peak recorded kill was almost 250 sharks in 1947, but, in response to concerns over dwindling numbers, the basking shark has had full legal protection since 1998 under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended by the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004).