Great Shark Snapshot Returns in July, Inviting Divers Worldwide to Support Shark Conservation

The Shark Trust has announced the return of its annual Great Shark Snapshot, inviting divers and snorkellers around the world to contribute to global shark conservation by recording the sharks, rays, skates and eggcases they encounter underwater.

Now in its fifth year, the initiative will run from 18–26 July 2026, giving recreational divers, dive centres, clubs, liveaboards and charter operators the opportunity to turn ordinary dives into valuable scientific observations.

The project forms part of the wider celebrations surrounding July’s unofficial “Shark Month” and aims to improve understanding of the global distribution of shark and ray species through citizen science.

Every Dive Can Make a Difference

Participants are asked to record every shark, ray, skate or eggcase seen during dives or snorkelling trips throughout the nine-day event. Where possible, divers are also encouraged to capture photographs or video to help verify sightings.

The observations are submitted to the Shark Trust’s Shark Log, an international database that allows scientists to build a long-term picture of species distribution and monitor changes over time.

According to the Shark Trust, more than 450 divers across 13 countries took part in last year’s event, collectively recording over 1,000 sharks and rays.

Open to Divers Worldwide

Unlike organised scientific surveys, the Great Shark Snapshot is designed to be accessible to anyone.

Whether diving locally or travelling overseas, participants simply need to log their sightings during the event period using the Shark Trust’s recording website or mobile app.

Caroline Robertson-Brown, Marketing Manager at the Shark Trust, said the organisation hopes to make 2026 its biggest event yet.

“We want to make 2026 our biggest Great Shark Snapshot year yet, making every dive count. Anyone can take part, anywhere in the world. It’s easy to join in and feel part of something big.”