Report a sighting or incident in BC
If you encounter a shark, let us know
Toll-free: 1-877-50-SHARK (1-877-507-4275)
Email: sharks@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Shark sighting form (PDF version, 44 KB)
To fill out a PDF form, you must:
- download it to your computer
- use PDF software to open it (such as, Adobe Reader or Foxit PDF)
For more information: How to download and open a PDF form
Everyone that encounters a Basking Shark, Bluntnose Sixgill Shark, Tope Shark, or any other shark species in BC (with the exception of North Pacific Spiny Dogfish) is encouraged to document and report the encounter to DFO.
You should document as many details of the encounter as possible, including:
- Photograph(s) or video of the shark, including the dorsal fin;
- Date of the encounter and time of day;
- Location (as specific as possible, e.g. positional GPS data);
- Estimates of the total length (see Figure 1) and sex (males have claspers, see Figure 2) of the shark(s);
- Any distinguishing features (e.g. colour, scars), behaviours, visible wounds, swimming ability of the shark post-release; and
- Your name and contact information (voluntary)
For more information, please see the Codes of Conduct for Shark Encounters and Basking Shark Encounters.
Questions or comments?
Call our toll free line: 1-877-50-SHARK (1-877-507-4275) or e-mail sharks@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
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