Teaming Up to Protect a Predator

Discovery Channel’s much-anticipated Shark Week is here, now in its twenty-third year. The annual week-long special educates viewers about the often misunderstood ocean creature, highlighting the growing threats to sharks and their habitat.

This year, Discovery is collaborating with Oceana, the world’s largest international ocean conservation organization.

“One of our challenges is getting the message out to the general public that sharks are in trouble,” said Elizabeth Wilson, marine scientist and Fisheries Campaign Manager at Oceana. “For one week out of the year, people turn their attention to sharks, so it’s a great opportunity.”

Together, Discovery and Oceana are working to spread the word about sharks’ plight through blogs, petitions, and PSAs during Shark Week. They are pushing for the Senate to pass the Shark Conservation Act and supporting other legislation that would help end shark finning.

“Sharks are the top predators of the ocean’s ecosystem, and when they are threatened, the ecosystem starts to fall apart,” Wilson said. “Humans are their predators.”

So, when you veg out in front of your TV this week to catch an episode of Shark Week, remember that those powerful, seemingly invincible creatures need protection, too.

--Kristin Baldwin