A Majestic Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) Patrolling the South African Coast (00015357)

Description: The Great White Shark, also known as Carcharodon carcharias, is a fascinating and powerful creature of the seas. This profile portrait of a Great White Shark was captured in front of the stunning backdrop of Geyser Rock near Dyer Island. Home to a large seal colony of approximately 60,000 animals, this coastal region sees the annual arrival of Great White Sharks during the winter months. These apex predators come to hunt their preferred prey - the Cape fur seals. The seals are well aware of the threat posed by the sharks and avoid encounters by staying close to land and in shallow waters. However, when venturing into the open sea, they must navigate through the danger zone where the Great White Sharks lurk. The high concentration of these majestic creatures is directly tied to the presence of the seal colony.

Location: Western Cape, Gansbaai/Dyer Island, South Africa

Date of Capture: 02.08.2004