They are the wolves of the ocean that usually scare people away.
But a north-east aquarium has hailed its two-week ‘shark season’ a success after it attracted more than 3,500 visitors to the area.
Macduff Marine Aquarium’s fortnight of shark-themed events showcased the centre’s six local species, and offered visitors a unique insight into the lives of the often misunderstood predators.
Aquarium learning officer, Sandra Bisset, said the chance to learn more about sharks had both boosted attendance figures and gone some way in repairing the species’ fearsome reputation among swimmers.
The popular event came to a close yesterday.
“It’s been great – our visitor numbers have been good and everything has gone really smoothly,” she said.
“Throughout it we looked at the myths surrounding sharks and the reality of how dangerous they really area.
“About eight to 10 people die every year from shark attacks, but over 150 die from coconuts falling on their heads.”
During the fortnight, daily talks at the aquarium’s nursery tank gave visitors the opportunity to chart a shark’s growth from embryo to pup.
Science workshops also explored the intimate lives of the fish, with guests getting to look inside a shark during a dissection.
The event was the aquarium’s latest bid to promote the sea life on Macduff’s doorstep.
Earlier this year, the attraction invited young chefs to take part in a seafood competition to create the best fish pie.
The title of ‘Young Fish Pie Master 2015’ was awarded to 13-year-old Phoebe Wiseman from Macduff, whose recipe will be added to the specials menu at the Banff Springs Hotel.