Bimini Marine Protected Area: Take Action Now

Bimini is a tiny little island gem located just 50 miles from the East coast of Florida. It has a rich and eclectic history wrapped around fishing, the Bermuda Triangle, the Rat Pack, rum running and shark science. While other elements are fairly fascinating, I am going to focus on the shark science. The mangroves of Bimini provide an ideal nursery ground for juvenile lemon sharks and the proximity to the Gulf Stream brings in large pelagics, making Bimini a very sharky location. Lemon sharks, tiger sharks, nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, great hammerheads and bull sharks are just a few of the regulars that can be found in the waters surrounding these islands in the stream.















I have had the great fortune of spending a lot of time in this amazing place and actually got married there just over 2 months ago. My husband was a manager at the Bimini Biological Field Station (Sharklab) for a few years before we worked a season on a dolphin boat. I had worked with the Sharklab on several projects and first visited the island in 2004. Bimini is our second home and one of the most beautiful places on the planet. We travel a lot and there really is no place like Bimini, not even in the Bahamas. With this being said, Bimini is in trouble. Man’s desire for bigger, better, faster has consumed parts of the island and is threatening to push onward. It boggles my mind as to why Bimini needs a casino or golf course when there are at least a dozen of either within 100 miles.

Bimini is not just sharks, but a dynamic mix of amazing animals above and below the surface. Sea turtles, snapper, Atlantic spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, stingrays, lobster, saw fish, the Bimini boa, land crabs and dozens of species of birds are all connected to the mangroves in some way.













The exciting part about exploring Bimini is that you never know what you might find.
Black tip reef sharks might come in to check you out on the East side of the island or a massive manta ray might fly past on the sand flats to the west. A pod of 50 spotted dolphins might want to play or a nurse shark might lay down on the bottom beside you. Schools of snapper dart in and out of the mangrove roots and juvenile lemon sharks maneuver through the channels. Juvenile green turtles take refuge in the mangrove creeks and eagle rays leap in the Alice Town channel. There is no end to the magic that Bimini holds and there are a million reasons why it needs to be protected.



There is a movement to finalize the details and full implementation of the Bimini Marine Protected Area. Below are sample letters for both Bahamian citizens and non-Bahamian citizens. Please take a moment to sign your name and send. Defining the parameters of the MPA and enforcing it our crucial for the survival of Bimini’s natural wonder. The ecosystem will suffer greatly without people fighting to save it.

Also check out a great blog by Kristine Stump, former BBFS primary investigator.

Sample letter for Bahamian citizens:
The Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie
Prime Minister of the Bahamas
Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield Centre
P O Box CB 10980
Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
primeminister@bahamas.gov.bs


The Hon. Obediah H. Wilchcombe
Minister of Tourism
Member of Parliament – West Grand Bahama and Bimini
Ministry of Tourism
British Colonial Hilton Hotel
Bay Street
P.O. Box N3701
Nassau, N.P. Bahamas
westgbbimini@myplp.org


The Hon. Kenred Dorsett
Minister of the Environment
Environment, The Ministry of
3rd Floor Manx Corporate Center
West Bay Street
P. O. Box N-3040
Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
dianalightbourne@bahamas.gov.bs


Michael Braynen
Director of Fisheries
Department of Marine Resources
Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources,
East Bay 
P O Box N 3028
Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
fisheries@bahamas.gov.bs


Affirmed as the Highest-Priority site in all of the Bahamas in 2000, and officially declared in December of 2008 by the Bahamas Minister of the Environment, the Honorable Dr. Earl Deveaux, the Bimini Marine Protected Area aims to preserve one of the richest environments in the Bahamas.


Now, in 2012, we are respectfully asking for the finalization and full implementation of Bimini’s Marine Protected Area (MPA).


By establishing the exact boundaries, rules, and regulations for Bimini’s MPA, we will preserve the unique heritage of this precious “Island in the Stream.” Bimini’s MPA will serve as the foundation from which this island’s economic and ecological future will grow, benefitting every individual and every business on the island.


As a proud Bahamian who cherishes our natural environment, I hereby offer my strong support in the full establishment of Bimini’s Marine Protected Area, and respectfully ask that the Government of the Bahamas treat this issue as a top priority for 2012.


For Bimini,
YOUR NAME HERE


Sample letter for non-Bahamian citizens


The Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie
Prime Minister of the Bahamas
Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield Centre
P O Box CB 10980
Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
primeminister@bahamas.gov.bs


The Hon. Obediah H. Wilchcombe
Minister of Tourism
Member of Parliament – West Grand Bahama and Bimini
Ministry of Tourism
British Colonial Hilton Hotel
Bay Street
P.O. Box N3701
Nassau, N.P. Bahamas
westgbbimini@myplp.org


The Hon. Kenred Dorsett
Minister of the Environment
Environment, The Ministry of
3rd Floor Manx Corporate Center
West Bay Street
P. O. Box N-3040
Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
dianalightbourne@bahamas.gov.bs


Michael Braynen
Director of Fisheries
Department of Marine Resources
Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources,
East Bay 
P O Box N 3028
Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
fisheries@bahamas.gov.bs


Affirmed as the Highest-Priority site in all of the Bahamas in 2000, and officially declared in December of 2008 by the Bahamas Minister of the Environment, the Honorable Dr. Earl Deveaux, the Bimini Marine Protected Area aims to preserve one of the richest environments in the Bahamas.


Now, in 2012, we are respectfully asking for the finalization and full implementation of Bimini’s Marine Protected Area (MPA).


By establishing the exact boundaries, rules, and regulations for Bimini’s MPA, we will preserve the unique heritage of this precious “Island in the Stream.” Bimini’s MPA will serve as the foundation from which this island’s economic and ecological future will grow, benefitting every individual and every business on the island.
Bimini’s tourism industry requires a healthy environment; it is the pristine beauty and extraordinary ecology of the Bahamas that continues to draw people to these islands. As someone who cares deeply about the Bahamas, I hereby offer my strong support in the full establishment of Bimini’s Marine Protected Area, and respectfully ask that the Government of the Bahamas treat this issue as a top priority for 2012.


For Bimini,
YOUR NAME HERE

Exploring the Everglades: Science Matters

The Everglades is an amazing ecosystem in South Florida’s backyard that offers a dynamic range of adventures. Our most recent exploit had us following a group of teachers from Missouri as they literally got their hands dirty with science. The piece will air as a PBS special in Missouri and South Florida. Science can be boring even for the biggest science geek at heart and is important for kids to break outside the stereotypical, “old guys in lab coats,” mentality. The goal for the week was for teachers to get first hand experience of the work that is being done in the Everglades and take back to their students the message that, “ science matters.” Having personal experiences allows people to be more passionate and informed about the subjects they are teaching. It also allows them to relate stories to their students that are not found in any textbook.




Florida International University has an extensive field research program based in the Everglades and on our first day we set out to see what some of the PhD students were up to. Many people, including the teachers in this group, think of the Everglades as a massive swamp that is mysterious and filled with alligators. It is mysterious and filled with alligators, but it is far from being a swamp. The Everglades is actually a river with moving water and a wide range of landscapes from mangroves to saw grass. One student is working with alligators while others are focused on bull sharks and bottlenose dolphins. Yes, there are dolphins in the Everglades. Fascinating to see them cruising the edge of the mangroves through murky water.





Dolphin spotting was done on the way to Shark River and a mother and calf made an appearance for a bit. Most of the teachers were really excited, as they were not expecting dolphins at all. Let’s be honest, everyone loves dolphins. Most of them agreed that if the day ended on that note they would be happy. The shark lines were set early, so we only had a short wait when we arrived on site. Everyone was anxious to see what was at the end of each line. After quite a few strike outs there was finally a tug on the line and a 6 ft bull sharked appeared just beneath the surface. The animal was hooked on the pectoral fin, which means the scientists must be even more efficient and careful in collecting the data and tagging the animal. Handling the animal is more of a challenge when it is not hooked in the mouth. The teachers watched mesmerized, seeing such an incredible animal up close. Most had never seen a shark and few had only seen small ones in aquariums. Several even got their hands dirty helping to bait the lines as well as pull them. It is a glamorous job, but someone has to do it. I laughed as one of the teachers fought with a fish eyeball that was stuck on the hook.





A second bull shark gave them the chance to see another shark up close and watch firsthand how the data is collected including measuring the length, determining the sex and taking a blood sample. Bull sharks are the only species of shark that can survive in fresh water, osmoregulating to keep their body in balance. Bull sharks have been found over 1000 miles inland up freshwater rivers and the Everglades has a thriving population of both juveniles and adults.

A single alligator was spotted on the ride back to the dock as well as more dolphins. Both alligators and bull sharks have been equipped with transmitters that send signals to monitors that are placed throughout the Shark River and its’ off shoots. The monitors, anchored on the bottom, collect information regarding what animal and how long they are in the area. This allows scientists to better understand the movements of these predators.

Our next adventure was a kayak and snorkel excursion at Deering Estate. The teachers kayaked out to a small island surround by sea grass beds. We filmed from a small boat and then explored the sea grass. Not a lot of life within the sea grass, which was surprising. We were expecting to see more fish and even some bonnethead sharks. The highlight was two land-based friends that we made before loading the kayaks and heading back to shore. Two raccoons had been busy and found a dry bag with blueberries in it. They had dragged the bag from a kayak and successfully opened it. The owner was happy that they had not eaten her license. Our guide said they have to lock the coolers because these little guys are quite precocious and can open anything. They showed no fear towards us and moved around the group and over the kayaks looking for more snacks. They even sniffed the camera to see if it was edible.

The next adventure was an airboat ride! Airboats are a really exhilarating way to explore the Everglades and the drivers are usually real characters that have spent a lot of time out in the wilderness. On the way to the park we stopped to film a canal along Alligator Alley. A gator moved towards the footbridge and had something in its mouth. As we tried to guess what the animal had been, its face rolled up to the surface; it was a dog. This was a little hard to stomach and we diverted the teachers away. Not that it isn’t science, but was a little more graphic than we were hoping to share. Another gator swam up and there was a bit of a struggle. This was made worse when later in the day we saw the same kind of dog walking along the edge of another canal. Not something I really want to film again.

The airboat ride was a blast and we even got to stand out in the saw grass. We needed to get shots of the boat passing so the whole film crew rolled up our pants and hopped in, trying not to sink up to our knees. Aside from the sharks I think this was the highlight for me. You are not really allowed to step out of the boat, so this was a real treat for us. When given the chance the teachers all jumped out as well. I was impressed with their sense of adventure.












Following the airboat we headed to Shark Valley for a tram tour to get a view of the different hammocks and animals within a different area of the Everglades. The two hour tram ride was tedious and our guide was unfortunately, not very interested in actually stopping to see anything. This was magnified when a turtle crossing the road nearly lost its life, but we did not even pause to check it out. We shouted from the back as we spouted turtles and numerous baby alligators, but it was to no avail. If you are planning a trip to Shark Valley, I would recommend renting a bike because you will see a lot more. The view from the tower at the halfway point is pretty impressive, but we were nearly left when we exceeded our 20 minute time limit. We had 2 pregnant teachers and the eight-mile walk home in the heat would have been brutal. Watch your clock because they will leave you! We all had a good laugh at the, “ non tour,” tour. We hoped off and walked the last quarter of a mile and saw several turtles, two baby alligators and some massive garfish.




Our final day was a return trip to Deering Estate. The kayak route was different and we snorkeled in an area with massive tree roots that were covered with mangrove snappers. We did not see any sharks, but it was an eerie and interesting place to explore. The halocline was very defined as fresh water mixed with salt coming out of the inlet. Really cool to see, but not ideal for filming snorkelers at the surface.

There was one surprise waiting for the teachers as they returned to the park; snake man. A local reptile guy was waiting with some invasive species to show the teachers just what critters are causing problems in the Everglades. Snake breeding areas were damaged during hurricanes and people also released pets. This has caused a massive influx of invasive species including Burmese pythons, African rock boas, iguanas and monitor lizards. Invasive species wipe out the indigenous animals and can cause a drastic shift in the ecosystem if left unchecked. Beautiful animals, but very destructive without any natural predators; a 16 foot python was found with an alligator in its stomach when dissected.





Although the heat was intense we survived without a massive thunderstorm and without looking like we got the chicken pox from mosquito bites. Such a magical place and really worth the trip whether you live in Florida or not.

World Oceans Day

In reality everyday should be world oceans day. We desperately need our oceans and they desperately need us to take care of them. Globally we are filling them with trash and pollution, killing off their inhabitants and disregarding them with reckless abandon. Ironic that this is how the human population treats its life force. Despite our best efforts to destroy her, the ocean keeps going. It is surviving when it should be thriving, but it will keep going.











I have always had a special connection to the ocean and don’t actually remember not being in complete awe of its vastness and the wonders that lie beneath the surface. I spent my childhood on the rocky coastline of Maine and had to be dragged out of the water with blue lips on every trip the beach. I spent hours hunched over tide pools discovering new critters and longing to slip into their world. I was also the kid that explained to other kids why they should not take crabs, starfish or still live sand dollars home.

I filled buckets and buckets with seashells and caused the car to smell like low tide on more than one occasion. At the age of 5 I discovered a giant clam shell in my grandparents garage. This mysterious monstrosity was an item from an estate auction they had purchased for their antique shop. I remember telling my mom that someday I was going to see a giant clam alive! I am happy to report that at the age of 25, I saw my first giant clam on the Great Barrier Reef and squealed with delight.
Whenever life has been tough or I have needed a quiet escape, the ocean has been a sanctuary. The ocean brings a sense of calm when life is insane. I can always put my toes in the water and know that everything will be all right. I cannot begin to explain what it is, but I know that it never fails.

The ocean is raw, wild, unpredictable, calm, mysterious and vast. It always reminds how small we really are in this life and how important the greater picture it. The oceans, whether you live in a landlocked area or on the coast, are vital for our survival. World Oceans Day is one single day, but in reality we need to celebrate, protect and preserve our oceans every single day. We cannot continue to treat them as an endless resource of goods or a giant trashcan.






I have turned that awe into a career that is primarily based around the ocean. I have created a life that allows me to spend most of my time on or in the water. Every person I can reach through photos, video or educational programs, is one more ocean advocate that joins the team. We are all in this together. Whatever groups you support or join, at the end of the day we are all fighting for the same goal; healthy oceans across the globe.

Go for a swim in the sea, go snorkeling, share a photo of the ocean, talk to friends or family members about what you love the ocean. Every little bit does make a difference. There is always hope even if sometimes it doesn’t seem like it is making a difference.

I'm a Shark Y'all

Nurse sharks are still sharks!

A lot of people take nurse sharks for granted when it comes to their “sharkiness, “ quickly losing interest in spotting them along the reef. I will admit it; I love nurse sharks. They are big floppy rabbits with very cute faces. Do not let that cute exterior fool you though; they are one very powerful animal. Nurse sharks can suck a conch out of its shell and crush a lobster like it is nothing. They are primarily nocturnal bottom dwellers that can usually be found under ledges and lazing around.

The first shark I ever tagged was a nurse shark. They were also the first sharks I ever encountered on a dive. It was my 4th open water dive and I was off the Dry Tortugas in 80 feet of crystal clear water. A shrimp boat had dumped its by catch and the sharks came in to feed. It also attracted tons of fish and several massive loggerhead turtles that were the mood for love. There were about 10 sharks zooming in and around and I remember being absolutely lost in the moment. I probably had no business being in water that deep or in a feeding situation, but to this day it is one of the most amazing in water moments I have ever had. There was no fear, like a little kid I was absolutely fascinated, not taking any of the dangers into account.

We spend a lot of time in the Bahamas and nurse sharks are regulars in most marinas that you visit. The marina at the Bimini Sands is no exception, with a regular gang of 3 nurse sharks that can be found nestled under a ledge most days. When there weather is bad a few more move in and take shelter. While walking with my 6-year-old friend Mackenzie, we spotted 2 small nurse sharks lying on the bottom. She told me that they were nurse sharks and that she likes them because they are cute. I feel the same way. I love the innocence and openness of a child. She did not scream or think it was a monster; instead she was excited to see the shark and expressed a fondness for it.

Nurse sharks are great ambassadors for sharks. They have a cute, almost goofy appearance that seems to attract affection. When we do tours at the lab we usually start by introducing people to a nurse shark. This immediately breaks the fabricated stereotypes about sharks and preconceived notions start to disappear. Even my aunt, a vocal hater of sharks, really enjoyed the little nurse sharks and proudly announced that she no longer believed that every shark should be killed; pretty powerful for a small fish just over a foot long. There is a something about seeing a shark up close, in its miniature version that amazes people. They stop thinking about them as man-eaters and appreciate what an incredible animal they are.

Each shark has its own character, just like people. They have features that make them look as though they are making a silly face or laughing at a joke. If you look close they really are these beautiful and intricate little creatures.

A lot of “ shark people” are over nurse sharks and don’t even stop to give them a second glance. They are sharks and they are so cool. No, they don’t have the streamline, torpedo shaped body or the big bitey teeth, but they can suck a conch out of its shell! I am sorry, but that is pretty flipping cool! Look at their faces; I mean how cute is that? How can you not give a little giggle and appreciate Mother’s Nature’s sense of humor giving a big bad shark a goofy face like that. They are cute, but they are very powerful, so don’t be silly and grab them or try to ride them. Sharks are not underwater scooters and if you were taking a nap you would be a bit grouchy if some idiot grabbed you and hauled you out of bed.

So next time you see a nurse shark smile and think of that silly face. Sharks are awesome!

Lucky Girl

I am a lucky girl.

I get to share sharks with people from all over the world and all walks of life. Watching each person evolve from “ Eeeek I am swimming with sharks,” to “Wow, I am swimming with sharks, “ is an amazing rush. It usually only takes a few minutes of watching these incredible animals move through the water to create that evolution.

Sharks get a bad rap and people come into the situation with a lot of preconceived notions. Sharks will NOT attack just because you are menstruating, have a cut or are peeing in the water. In fact the only real attractant that we are going to introduce is some bait.

We all love our monsters and I suppose it is easy to get carried away thinking about a man-eating shark, massive anaconda or giant alligator that has somehow escaped from the movie set and it surely going to find you.

Even if people are nervous or scared, I love that they want so badly to see these animals up close and have their own experience. It is never easy to face our fears, but when we conquer them it is such a rush. I love when people respond with, “ why haven’t I done this before,” or “ when can I do this again.” Fear becomes excitement and excitement creates a connection to the animals. Now we have empathy and a new shark advocate is born. No, you do not have to run out and start protesting or be an expert; all you need to do is care about these animals and explain to friends and family why they are pretty damn awesome!

I always make reference to the fact that everyone has a voice and that it is quite simple to just speak up. Go home after your shark encounter and tell your friends and family, especially those that think you are out of your mind for even considering a swim with these monsters, and rave about the experience. Explain the beauty of a shark moving through the water. Yes, I said beauty. Talk about their eyes, their color, and their smile! Revel in the fact that you had a moment with one of Mother’s Natures most amazing creations.

I love every second that I can spend with sharks, but the rush of seeing someone fall in love with sharks for the first time might even rival that. I am responsible for creating that moment, the realization and that rush. I am not a shark expert, but I am a shark super fan and I am doing my best to create a small army of other shark fans around the world.

I am a lucky girl.

Thanks to Laura, Eric & Antoine for becoming the latest group of shark fans!

Sharky Island Girl Yummies: Part 1

Living on a small island with limited access to supplies can be challenging. If the weather is bad the boat cannot bring things across and fresh produce only arrives once a week. We eat mostly vegan or vegetarian, which can be even more of a challenge. I have a lot of fun coming up with yummy meals and wanted to share a few of my recipes. I have borrowed a few ideas and changed them, but most of the recipes are right out of this Shark girl’s imagination.
Bon Appetite!

Black Bean & Split Pea Veggie Burgers with Guacamole:

Being back on the island our grocery options are limited and a bit pricey. I wanted to make a batch of veggie burgers, but could not find any lentils and chickpeas were pretty expensive. I grabbed a can of black beans and a bag of split peas to see what I could do. The split peas look like lentils, so I figured why not.

What You Need:

1 Can Black Beans ( 12oz)
1 Bag of Split peas ( 12oz)
1 large onion
1.5 C bread crumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic
Seasoning (I used garlic salt)
Salt & Pepper
1 large avocado (Florida) or 2 small Haas avocados
Juice from half a lime
1 TB Garlic salt
Cayenne pepper or hot sauce ( optional)

To Make Burgers:

Soak the split peas over night or heat on low for 40 minutes with enough water to cover the peas. Cook until soft.
Preheat the oven to 375 F
Rinse black beans and sauté with garlic, onion and seasoning
Add in split peas and mix. Combine with breadcrumbs and egg. Mix. Add more crumbs if too moist
Place mixture in fridge to cool
Mold mixture into patties
Dry fry for 1-2 minutes on each side
Back for 20-25 minutes depending on the size of the burger
Makes 8 burgers

To Make Guacamole:

Remove avocado flesh from skin and place in bowl
Mash with fork or blend in food processor
Add lime juice and garlic salt and mix

Top burgers with guacamole and enjoy! For a real treat serve on a slice of toasted Bimini bread!!

Healthy No Bake Cookies

No bake because I had no baking soda or baking powder, so I had to improvise.
The recipe called for cocoa powder, but didn’t have that either. These were a gamble, but they are super yummy!

3 c quick oats
¼ chocolate protein powder
½ peanut butter
½ cup soy milk ( I also use almond milk)
1 large ripe banana
¼ c light brown sugar

Mash the banana. In a small pan heat the peanut butter and soy milk into boiling. Turn off and mix thoroughly. Add protein powder, sugar and banana. Mix. Trasnfer to a bowl and add in the oats. Mix until all oats are coated in the peanut butter mixture. Scoop onto a plate in whatever size cookie you want. Put in refrigerator for 20 minutes, if you can wait that long.

Coconut Cream Pie with Lime Banana Glaze

Adapted from my lovely yogi friend Brittany’s recipe.
This pie is a labor of love, but definitely a nice treat.

Crust:

I used corn flakes, but I am going to try ginger snaps
2 cups corn flakes
1 large ripe banana
1 tbsp agave nectar
Smash cornflakes or cookies in a bag or in food processor. Mash the banana. Mix banana, crumbs and agave together until it forms a doughy mass. Press mass into bottom of cake pan. You can leave as is (raw) or bake until golden brown ( 350 F for 15 mins )

Filling:
Flesh from 3 medium coconuts (I had a nice husband to shuck them for me)
½ cup coconut water
½ cup almond milk (can use soy)
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp agave nectar

Blend all ingredients in blender or food processor until you get a thick cream. Should be like yogurt in consistency. Spread across crust and put in freezer.

Glaze:

Juice from 1 large lime or 1.5 smaller limes
1-1.5 Ripe bananas
1 tbsp agave
Mix all in blender or food processor. Pour onto top of coconut mix. Place in freezer for 2 hours to set. After set it can be refrigerated. Enjoy a healthy and decadent treat!

Vegan Island Ceviche

1 large white onion
1 large tomato
1 large green pepper
2 TBSP garlic salt
1 large lime
Hot sauce

Dice onion, tomato and pepper into small pieces and mix in bow. Add juice of one lime. Add garlic salt and hot sauce to taste. Mix and serve.

Vegan Apple Crumble

1 C oats
1 large apple
1 large ripe banana
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 TBSP Agave nectar


2 TBSP cinnamon

Combine ingredients and spread on baking dish. Bake at 400 for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Kalik Braised Cabbage with Black Bean Salsa:

¼ of a green cabbage
1 can black beans
½ large onion
1 large tomato
2 stalks celery
2 TBSP diced garlic
1TBSP Cumin
Salt to taste
¼ C Kalik ( local Bahamian Beer)
Hot Sauce ( optional)

Slice cabbage and place in large fry pan. Add beer and steam on high until cabbage is tender. Dash with salt or garlic salt.
Rinse black beans thoroughly. Chop onion and celery into small pieces. Add a dash of beer to the pan and sauté garlic and diced onion for 2 minutes. Add celery and black beans. Bring to a boil then simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. Add tomatoes and simmer for 2 more minutes. Add more beer or water if needed. Add cumin, salt and hot sauce. Mix.
Put cabbage in bowl and top with salsa.

I " SAW" a Fish

Duncan and I decided to make use of the glorious day and head to the lab to film baby nurse sharks. When we arrived at the lab there was frenzy of people and excited shouting. Before I could really process what was happening, we were in a skiff and zipping out the channel. We stopped the boat and looked at each other, not exactly sure where we were headed. A quick radio to the other boats and we were underway again. The reason for this frantic departure was that the Sharklab had caught and tagged a 4.1 m small tooth sawfish. This animal is endangered an extremely rare to see. In his 2.5 years at the lab, Duncan never saw one. We were like kids on Christmas morning as we raced across the flats.

When were filming at the Blue Hole in Long Island in 2010 a freediver spotted a sawfish in the Blue Hole. We arrived just after the encounter happened and immediately put our snorkel gear on. We spent a while in the hole hoping to get a glimpse, but were resigned to looking at pictures. It was really exciting and a little creepy for the diver, doing a breath hold with his eyes closes on the line, who first spotted the creature from the Blue Hole. I reported the time, location, and depth and sent a picture to the appropriate parties. Excited to contribute valuable data, but jealous of those had seen the elusive animal.

Some of the lab crew had spotted her while fishing for other sharks. Grant and Steve assisted in getting a tail rope on her so that she could be brought to the side of the bought and worked up. She was carefully measured, as working with the saw can be dangerous. These animals are incredibly strong and have a very sharp business end. DNA and blood samples were taken and she was tagged with an acoustic transmitter that can be actively tracked.

Sharklab Assistant Manager Lindsay Biermann holding the saw fish next to the boat.


We found the flotilla of boats and added our trusty steed. We had not planned on being in the water, so did not have our mask or fins. This meant grabbing random fins and gear in an attempt to piece together a suitable kit for filming the awaiting critter. Duncan managed to score a proper pair of freediving fins, where I was left with a set of “my first fins,” that proved to be as effective as bedroom slippers on my feet. I slipped into the water and followed the line that was connected to the sawfish.

She appeared in the distance and I gasped and giggled in my snorkel. She was massive. In my head I knew that 4.1 meter was big, but it seems as though a sawfish carries itself with a larger than life presence. Maybe it is the massive serrated “saw” at the front. She was lying on the bottom, but keeping a watchful eye on the action. She got agitated and stirred up a massive cloud of dust. Filming was tricky because you do not want to stress the animal. I floated there in complete awe of this prehistoric looking creature just a few feet away. I equate this experience to seeing a giant panda in the wild, although I prefer my encounters in the water.

Sawfish are a type of ray that inhabits coastal waters. Very little is known about these animals and they are listed as critically endangered on the ICUN Red List. Trophy fishermen have valued their saw and for hundreds of years these animals have been targeted. They have also suffered because of coastal habitat loss. This is seen even in Bimini where a major resort has filled in a large section of mangrove. The Sharklab team was able to track her for 8.5 hours. They lost her in the middle of the night in shallow water that the boats could not get through. They are still actively searching for her in hopes of being able to put a satellite tag on her. This would provide invaluable information about this animal.

Seeing an animal like this sends a flow of energy and excitement through everyone involved. It is moments like these that remind us why we all fight so hard to help the oceans. I want my children to see a sawfish, not just tell the story about an animal that once lived around Bimini.