What do our Australian Zoochat friends think of the new Western Australia policy of killing large tiger, great white, and bull sharks? Isn't there any federal Australian law protecting sharks that prevents this kind of behavior? It seems more like a public relations stunt than any real remedy to a shark problem. http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/04/w...ll-policy-draws-protest.html?ref=science&_r=0
Most of my colleagues with a zoological understanding know that this is an idiotic knee-jerk reaction from moronic politicians. A large section of the general public are aware of this too, but the pollies don't seem to be swayed. It may be a publicity stunt, but it's causing a lot of negative publicity. Hix
It is not much of a publicity stunt as almost all the public is against it. West Australian politicians are not known for their intelligence. Great Whites are federally protected, but the federal government has given WA a permit for the destruction of some sharks which last a couple of months before they will need to reapply.
The cast of Pixar’s Finding Nemo were left shattered this afternoon by the news that long-time colleague and fishy friend Bruce had succumb to injuries suffered at the hands of West Australia’s ongoing shark cull. Bruce, 32, was believed to have been enjoying a holiday with family at the time of the accident that witnesses described as horrific and tragic. Chum, who played Bruce’s sidekick on the critically acclaimed 2003 animated film led a procession of emotional outpouring for the fallen star, taking to twitter to lament that “a pleasant shark and friend has passed on. Forever love you Bruce. RIP.” Similarly a statement released by sea power couple Marlin and Dory, who met on the set of the film, described Bruce as “the most jolly, laidback colleague and friend we ever had the pleasure to work with. His tough persona belied a soft soul and constant jokester. We shall always love you Brucie.” Bruce the Great White Shark began his career largely as an extra in live-action Shark Week documentaries until director Andrew Stanton surprised many with his casting in smash-hit Finding Nemo. The decision to cast Bruce, then an unknown dramatic actor fish into a major comedy role was a masterstroke, as Bruce’s portrayal of a dysfunctional shark leader propelled him to fame and success. Forever the quiet family man, Bruce managed to stay away from the tabloids, concentrating his time with his dolphin wife Martha and their 89 bi-racial pups. In response to the incident, West Australian Premier Colin Barnett told The Strayan that “we regret the outcome, but there are plenty more fish in the sea.”
The shark cull has been abandoned indefinitely: WA abandons shark culling program, but reserves right to kill again | Environment | theguardian.com
