Residents and tourists on the picturesque island of San Andrés witnessed a rare spectacle recently when a shark ventured close to the shore of Spratt Bight beach, attacking a stingray in shallow waters. The incident took place as the beaches of the archipelago were bustling with vacationers during the busy New Year’s holiday week, causing moments of shock and distress among onlookers.
The local environmental authority of the islands, the Corporation for the Sustainable Development of the Archipelago of San Andrés, Providencia, and Santa Catalina (Coralina), responded to the shark alert, emphasizing the importance of marine conservation and urging the public to remain calm.
In an official statement, Coralina warned that “it is unacceptable for humans to intervene in nature in this way,” as amateur video footage shows a local on a jet ski attempting to approach the shark. “Sharks, like other marine species, play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of our oceans. When encountering potentially dangerous animals, individuals should exercise caution and respect the lives of these creatures,” highlighted Coralina.
The conservation entity clarified that the shark involved was a hammerhead, and a species known to frequent the waters around the archipelago. “Hammerhead sharks, in their natural habitat, often come close to the coastline as part of their feeding cycle. This behavior is normal and contributes to the balance of the marine ecosystem,” emphasized Coralina.
Despite shock among tourists and locals in a video that went viral, Coralina discouraged any attempts by humans to interfere with the shark’s natural food cycle. “It’s crucial to recognize that sharks, particularly hammerheads, are fundamental in marine food systems. They have specific roles in preventing the proliferation of invasive species and maintaining the health of our oceans,” affirmed Coralina.
Following the incident, Spratt Bight was evacuated given the necessity to protect beachgoers. “In situations like these, it’s best to let the marine food cycle complete naturally. The evidence suggests that the shark managed to bite the ray but did not complete its hunt. Disturbing these processes can have unintended consequences for the delicate balance of the ecosystem,” warned Coralina.
The stingray was identified as an Aerobatus narinari, species that, despite its ability to dive up to 80 meters deep, typically inhabits the coastal areas, bays, and coral reefs of the Caribbean.
