Shark Thames

Have you ever heard of a shark swimming in the River Thames? It may sound like a scene from a horror movie, but it's actually a real-life event that happened in 2015. Yes, there are really sharks in the Thames. As surprising as it may seem, there's more to this story than meets the eye.
The Thames is home to a diverse range of marine life, including fish, birds, invertebrates, and seals. So, it's not entirely outlandish to think that sharks could also inhabit the river. The biggest surprise, however, is not the presence of sharks in the Thames, but the species that was found: a small-spotted catshark. These sharks are usually found in coastal waters and estuaries, but they have been known to stray into rivers.
The small-spotted catshark that was found in the Thames was only about 50 centimeters long. It was likely a juvenile, and it's believed that it may have gotten lost or disoriented and ended up in the river. So, while it's not common to find sharks in the Thames, it's not impossible either.
Apart from the small-spotted catshark, there have been other sightings of sharks in the Thames. In 2003, a tope shark was caught near Gravesend. Tope sharks are larger than small-spotted catsharks, and they can grow up to 2 meters in length.
So, what does this mean for swimmers and boaters in the Thames? While the chance of encountering a shark is extremely low, it's important to be aware of their presence. If you see a shark, it's best to stay calm and avoid any sudden movements. Sharks are more likely to attack if they feel threatened.
The presence of sharks in the Thames is a reminder that the river is a diverse and dynamic ecosystem. It's home to a wide variety of wildlife, and we should respect and protect it. So, the next time you're swimming or boating in the Thames, keep your eyes peeled for sharks. You might just be surprised by what you see.