Hammerhead Shark found on beach in Lanzarote
A hammerhead shark was discovered washed ashore on La Garita beach in Arrieta, Lanzarote, yesterday morning (Saturday), prompting action from the island’s environmental authorities.
The Environmental Department of the Cabildo took charge of the animal and began the necessary procedures for its collection and examination.
Members of the public spotted the shark on the shore and quickly alerted the authorities. No further details have yet been released regarding the cause of the stranding.
Hammerhead sharks (Sphyrnidae family) are known to inhabit waters around the Canary Islands, although sightings near popular swimming areas remain unusual.
These creatures typically prefer deeper or open ocean waters, making each appearance close to shore a notable event for marine observers.
Experts stress that there is very little risk to the public. Shark attacks in the Canaries are extremely rare, and hammerheads generally pose no danger to humans unless they feel threatened or cornered.
Beachgoers can continue to enjoy the coastline with confidence, while authorities work to better understand why the shark came so close to land.
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