The thresher shark (Alopias vulpinus) is one of the most elusive creatures in UK waters. It is instantly recognisable by its long, whip like tail, which it uses to stun and immobilise prey. We know very little about thresher sharks’ movements, behaviour, or breeding areas around the UK. Moreover, these awe inspiring sharks have recently been listed as Endangered in European waters on the IUCN Red List, making funding for this research vital for their conservation and protection.

A thresher shark. Credit Francesco Garzon

A Critical Opportunity in UK Waters

The University of Exeter will carry out research to explore thresher shark movements around UK waters, with a particular focus on the Isle of Wight. Could these waters be a previously unknown and vital breeding or nursery ground?

Endangered sharks are disappearing faster than researchers can study them, so it is vital to act now to conserve these enigmatic creatures and preserve ocean health.

Why This Research Matters

Understanding where thresher sharks go, how long they stay, and what habitats they rely on is essential for:

• Protecting critical feeding and breeding areas

• Informing conservation policy and marine management

• Predicting how this species will respond to environmental change, including climate change

By uncovering movements and behaviours of thresher sharks, we can move to evidence based action.

Our Approach: Cutting Edge Science, Local Partnership

Researchers at the University of Exeter are international leaders in using electronic tagging to study the movements and behaviour of marine animals. These tags provide insight into how species interact with their environment over long periods of time.

With the generous support of an initial donor, we have funds for two electronic tags; in order to fully explore the movement of this species we seek funding for a further three tags. Working closely with recreational anglers (fishers) who have unique local knowledge and a shared commitment to conservation, we will deploy electronic tags that can track individual sharks for up to 12 months.  

The tags will automatically detach and transmit data back to the University of Exeter, revealing:

• Migration routes

• Residency patterns

• Diving behaviour

• Key habitats that may require protection

This will generate the first scientific movement data ever collected on thresher sharks in UK waters.

Alongside tagging, we will also collate historical catch records and traditional knowledge from local anglers, providing crucial context on seasonal patterns and long term trends.

Help Protect Sharks – Support Our Tagging Project

Ever wanted to play a part in real marine science? Now’s your chance.

By supporting our shark tagging project, you can help researchers track and protect these incredible animals. Tagging sharks allows scientists to understand where they travel, how they behave, and how best to protect them in the wild.

How you can get involved:

• £45 - Helps buy a shark tag, allowing us to track and monitor individual sharks.

• £80 - Contributes towards hiring a research boat to locate and safely tag sharks at sea.

• £4,500 one-off donation - Make a lasting impact by funding a full tagging effort—and you’ll even get the special opportunity to name a shark tag yourself!

Our target is £15,000 to allow researchers to track 5 sharks in total.

Every donation big or small makes a real difference. By supporting this project, you’re helping protect sharks for future generations and contributing to vital marine conservation work.

Thank you

Main photo credit: Nina Constable