The creatures of the deep will always be mysterious, eerie, and beautiful all at the same time. There's a lot that we know about most of them, but when we get to see them up close, big or small, they still manage to take our breaths away.
Sharks are perhaps some of the most feared but well-studied animals of the oceans. Just because most humans don't usually want to be near them (unlike this brave diver), doesn't mean that they are all the same. Some of these fearsome-looking creatures are actually the gentlest giants yet. Take the whale shark, for example: though quite large and imposing, these animals are no threat to humans.
Much like the whale shark, the basking shark looks a little funny, but is, in reality, quite harmless. It is the second-largest living fish and feeds almost exclusively on zooplankton and small fish — and do not pose any kind of danger to people. Their large, almost comical-looking mouths filter water when the shark decides to feed.
One kayaker captured his encounter with one of these majestic creatures off the Isle of Man and the footage is simply incredible. The man, named Craig Whalley, witnessed a 23-foot-long basking shark in the shallow water and you won't believe how close he gets!
Now watch the clip to get a glimpse at this fantastic animal.
Please SHARE if you would love to have an up close and personal encounter with such a beautiful creature, too!
Photo source: Facebook/BBC North West Tonight
