Sunfish number one today

Amongst the many Basking Sharks sighted during today’s Whale watch explorer we were also greeted to a first for this season: A Sunfish.

We see this magnificent fish on a regular basis throughout July and August when they enter our waters to feed primarily on our Jellyfish.

These largely tropical fish can reach up three metres in length, although we often sight much smaller examples.

They approach the surface for a number of reasons, including the warmer water, foraging for food and the removal of their sea lice by the local sea birds. This behaviour can often be confused as an act of distress, given the appearance of floating on the surface, it is in fact perfectly natural and its great to see them on our trips.

Tom Evans
SLS Head Guide