Feared and vilified for centuries, misunderstood species like wolves, sharks, and bats often face significant conservation challenges due to our continued misperceptions of them. Join the Wolf Conservation Center’s Senior Research Scientist Dr. Joey Hinton and Director of Education and Advocacy Regan Downey for our Misunderstood Species Webinar Series, designed to shed light on the myths and misconceptions surrounding some of our world’s most vital wild animals.
Sharks are often described as “wolves of the sea” due to their status as an apex predator and their influence on marine ecosystems. Just like wolves on land, sharks are misunderstood and vilified by humans which can impact their ability to thrive and expand into new territories, despite their beneficial predatory capabilities.
Shortfin mako sharks are the fastest shark in the world, but there are some things they can’t outswim. The Center hosted Dr. Michael Byrne for a webinar on July 10 to celebrate Shark Week and learn about threats facing shortfin mako sharks. Dr. Byrne talked about the oceanographic conditions that appear to limit where this open-ocean predator can travel in the Pacific Ocean, and touched on the conservation issues facing the species in the Atlantic Ocean.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Dr. Michael Byrne is an Associate Professor of Wildlife Ecology at the University of Missouri. His research covers multiple species - from racoons, to raptors, to wolves and sharks, Mike is focused on better understanding these misunderstood species and improving the public's perception. His ultimate goal is to shift the cultural narrative from fear to respect, and ensure sharks continue to thrive in the world’s oceans for generations to come.