Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the largest known fish species in the world, and at certain times of the year can be found off the coast of Northern Peru.
Here are some key facts about whale sharks and how you can incorporate them in a Peru visit:
1. Size: Whale sharks can grow to immense sizes, with the largest reaching lengths of up to 12 m (40 ft). The largest recorded individual was nearly 19 m (62 ft) in length!
They can weigh several tons, with some estimates suggesting weights of up to 20 tons.
Whale sharks pose no threat to humans.
2. Behaviour: Despite their large size, whale sharks are known for their docile nature and pose no threat to humans.
They are filter feeders, swimming slowly near the surface with their mouths open, filtering water, and trapping plankton and small fish.
They are known to migrate long distances, but much about their life cycle remains a mystery.
3. Age: Whale sharks are thought to live between 80 and 130 years.
The markings on a whale shark are unique to each individual.
4. Appearance: These gentle giants have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
They have a flattened head with a wide mouth that can reach up to 1.2 m (4 ft) wide, allowing them to filter-feed on plankton and small fish.
The skin of a whale shark can be up to 15 cm (6 in) thick and is very rough to the touch.
Their bodies are covered in a unique pattern of pale yellow or grayish spots and stripes, which are unique to each individual and can be used for identification.
5. Distribution: Whale sharks have a global distribution, occurring in tropical and warm-temperate waters across the world's oceans. They are rarely found in water with a temperature below 21ºC (70ºF).
They are often found in coastal areas, near islands, and in areas with high concentrations of plankton.
Many whale sharks show scarring … possibly from boat propellors.
6. Conservation Status: Whale sharks are listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
They face various threats, including habitat degradation, boat strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and illegal fishing for their fins and meat.
International efforts are underway to protect whale sharks and their habitats, regulate tourism activities, and promote conservation and research initiatives.
They play a vital role in marine ecosystems and serve as a flagship species for marine conservation efforts.
How to see Whale Sharks in Peru:
Whale sharks can be found in Peruvian waters, primarily off the coast of northern Peru in the Pacific Ocean.
The main area where whale sharks are commonly sighted in Peru is around the coastal towns of Máncora and nearby Punta Sal. They are attracted by the suitable sea conditions and abundant food sources.
They are seasonal visitors, typically appearing between November and April, although exact timing may vary. For example, this year (2023) they have been seen since September.
A swimmer enjoying company of whale shark.
During this period, a marine life boat tour gives you the chance to see these gentle giants up close. And if you are really lucky, you will have the chance to snorkel or swim alongside these incredible creatures (according to strict guidelines).
PeruNorth could arrange this as part of their Pacific Beach Break.
For an even greater understanding of the whale shark, Peruvian NGO ecOceanica runs an annual Shark Camp during which participants spend a week staying on the coast, learning about and investigating these non-mammalian vertebrates. This research is part of a process to monitor the population, understand migration patterns, and implement conservation measures.
For more information, please get in touch.