Canary Islands Kayaker Fends Off Persistent Hammerhead Shark

In a recent incident off the coast of La Palma in the Canary Islands, a kayaker found himself in an unexpected confrontation with a hammerhead shark. Juan José Afonso, a local fisherman, was forced to use his paddle as a defensive tool when the marine predator repeatedly approached his vessel.

The encounter occurred near Tazacorte, a municipality on La Palma's western coast. Afonso described the shark's behavior as unusual, stating:

"Normally they swim a couple of times around you and go away, but this one kept coming and going, and then he came in to bite me right where I was sitting, in the middle of the kayak. That worried me. This is strange, I thought."

The incident was captured on video, showing Afonso setting aside his fishing equipment and preparing to defend himself. He struck the circling shark twice, aiming for its head and side, while shouting for it to leave.

This event occurred approximately one week after a tragic incident involving a 30-year-old German woman, who lost her life following a shark attack 270 miles south of the Canary Islands. The woman, who was on a boat trip, suffered severe injuries and subsequently died of cardiac arrest during an airlift to a hospital in Gran Canaria. Experts suggest the attack was likely a chance encounter with either a tiger or great white shark.

Hammerhead sharks are frequently observed in the waters surrounding the Canary Islands. These distinctive creatures, known for their hammer-shaped heads, are generally not considered a threat to humans. However, their curious nature often leads them to approach boats and shorelines.

In June 2024, beaches in Gran Canaria were temporarily closed after a hammerhead shark was spotted swimming close to the shore at Melenara beach, causing panic among bathers.

The Canary Islands, an archipelago off the northwestern coast of Africa, are renowned for their diverse marine life. The islands' subtropical climate and unique location contribute to the rich biodiversity in their surrounding waters. While shark encounters are relatively rare, the recent incidents have raised awareness about marine safety in the region.

Hammerhead sharks, with nine known species, are found in warm and tropical waters worldwide. Most species are relatively small and harmless to humans, with the great hammerhead being the largest, reaching up to 20 feet in length. These sharks are known for their exceptional sensory capabilities, with their wide-set eyes providing a 360-degree view of their surroundings.

Despite their intimidating appearance, hammerhead sharks play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. However, they face threats from overfishing and habitat loss, leading to their classification as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

As the Canary Islands continue to balance their thriving tourism and fishing industries with marine conservation efforts, incidents like these serve as reminders of the complex relationship between humans and marine life in this unique archipelago.