Shark net usage needs rational examination

While the death of a dolphin in the shark nets off Alkantstrand last week might seem comparatively trivial in the light of the frequent and tragic loss of human lives, for conservationists and planet watchers it is no small matter.

An abundance of evidence is available on social media, TV documentaries and other sources to show that mankind is paying the price for its disregard of the ocean, its habitation and its creatures.

From global warming to pollution, over-fishing and a host of other threats to the marine environment, we have in many cases already destroyed much of the planet and its non-human inhabitants.

For about two decades, the highly endangered humpback dolphin – it is estimated there are fewer than 500 all the way from Maputo to the Cape - has been the subject of research at Richards Bay.

‘Humpies’ are in fact South Africa’s most endangered mammals.

The purpose of the studies, hosted by Wits University, is to ensure the present and future status of these beautiful and highly intelligent creatures.

Richards Bay is blessed in that these shy dolphins can regularly be seen from the dolphin viewing platform at Alkantstrand.

Sadly, from that place can also be seen the buoys that hold in place the shark nets, which from time to time ensnare dolphins, rays, turtles and other sea creatures.

The KZN Sharks Board, working with dolphin researchers, has done all in its power to reduce the dolphin entanglement, including replacing some net sections with drum lines.

But still the dolphin deaths continue – and they will until a non-lethal option to the nets is found.

Do we really need the nets; and do they really offer meaningful protection for bathers?

We suggest that the supposed call for continued deployment of shark nets is fueled by emotion, rather than facts.

While a shark attack is certainly a traumatic event and would trigger large-scale fear of entering the ocean, the reality is that the incidence of shark attacks is extremely rare.

On average, only six people die worldwide from shark attacks each year!

We would also do well to remember that we are the intruder in the sharks’ domain and should not be surprised if they defend their young and territory, or mistakenly identify us as prey.

And despite the lies and misinformation told in horror movies, sharks do not have any particular desire for human flesh and our scent – even that of our blood - is not alluring to them.

We do not blame the Sharks Board: they are simply service providers for the municipality – at great expense.

As one would say in a case of assault: is the amount of force used (or money spent) equal to the threat?