Galapagos Sharks Migrate
A recent survey conducted by the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galapagos National Park has found conclusive evidence that Hammerhead Sharks migrate between Galapagos and Cocos Island, 100km north of Galapagos.
Two Whale Sharks and thirty Hammerhead Sharks were tagged, and two Hammerheads were fitted with satellite tags which will enable their movements to be tracked. Previous expeditions have tagged sharks and used underwater receivers which show that the Hammerheads spend most of their time around Darwin and Wolf islands. However the recent recording of two hammerheads from Galapagos at Cocos Island indicates that they do travel long distances. Additionally, sharks are known to move between Cocos and Malpelo Island, off Colombia.
The satellite tags will enable scientists to find out much more about the sharks’ migratory patterns and help develop strategies and policies to protect the species. This work was supported by WWF and Conservation International and was filmed by the National Geographic film team.