Sharks

With summer comes more people going to the beach which of course means the usual talk about shark attacks. I find this conversation amusing each and every year, as sharks are my favorite animals and I have much respect for these creatures.

Sharks have changed little in form and function for the past several millions of years. They are perfectly evolved for their underwater hunting lifestyle. Sleek, powerful, intelligent creatures that fulfill many different roles in marine ecosystems - some are scavengers, top carnivores, or even omnivores. Most shark species are less than a foot long. More people are killed by soda vending machines than sharks each year.

Chances are if you made it to the beach ok, you'll return to your car at the end of the day in one piece. Just be smart people and don't swim at down and dusk (this is when most sharks feed) or where people are fishing (blood attracts sharks). Enjoy the beach. Be excited when you see wildlife like fish, sharks, dolphins, birds, etc - they are beautiful aspects of nature!