A shark rams into a kayaker who narrowly escapes falling victim to this feared marine predator.
Seasoned kayaker and fisherman, Greg Potter, embarked on what was supposed to be a relaxing fishing trip. However, nature had other plans.
Instead, he got caught up in a perilous chase between a shark and a seal, displaying the sometimes very raw circle of life.
Let’s take a closer look at this man’s near-death experience.
The Peaceful Scene Before the Sharks Rams Into Kayaker
On a serene Saturday, Greg Potter embarked on a kayaking adventure in the waters of Waihau Bay, New Zealand. The experienced fisherman was in search of southern bluefin tuna, a quest that soon took a dangerous turn.
Potter, who owns GP Fishing Adventures, was about to witness nature’s raw and ruthless side, up close and personal.
The Unexpected Encounter
As Potter pedaled his 13-foot kayak, he noticed a disturbance in the water. Initially mistaking it for a school of tuna, he approached the site only to realize a shark was chasing a seal.
The chase escalated quickly, with both animals moving at a remarkable speed, covering the distance towards Potter faster than he had anticipated.
A Kayak: A Shelter for the Seal
In a desperate attempt to escape the predator, the seal identified Potter’s kayak as a potential hiding spot. It raced towards the kayak, crashing into its side in a frantic bid to evade the shark.
This move drew the shark closer to Potter, initiating a series of dangerous encounters that threatened his safety.
Shark Rams Into Kayaker: The Shark’s Relentless Pursuit
The shark, possibly a great white or mako, was relentless in its pursuit. It leaped out of the water, following the seal and crashing into the kayak not once, but twice.
The force of the second impact was so strong that it nearly knocked Potter out of his kayak, a situation that could have had disastrous consequences considering the shark’s apparent aggression.
Potter’s Quick Response
Despite the chaos, Potter managed to maintain a semblance of calmness.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, he ceased recording the event and focused on navigating away from the dangerous encounter.
His experience as a seasoned kayaker and fisherman played a crucial role in his quick response to the unfolding crisis.
With adrenaline fueling his escape, Potter pedaled away from the site, creating distance between him and the pursuing shark.
Mako Vs. Great White
In case you’re not familiar with the two shark species that Potter suspects he came into close contact with, here’s a table to acquaint you with them:
| Aspect | Mako Shark | Great White Shark |
|---|---|---|
| Average Size | 10 feet (3 meters) | 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) |
| Maximum Size | Up to 12 feet (3.8 meters) | Up to 20-23 feet (6-7 meters) |
| Weight | 132-298 lbs (60-135 kg) | 1500-2400 lbs (680-1100 kg) |
| Speed | Up to 46 mph (74 km/h) | Up to 25 mph (40 km/h) |
| Diet | Fish (including other sharks), squids | Seals, sea lions, fish, squids, and even sea birds |
| Habitat | Offshore temperate and tropical seas | Coastal and offshore waters in temperate seas |
| Teeth | Curved, razor-sharp teeth for slicing | Triangular, serrated teeth for tearing flesh |
| Hunting Technique | Ambush predator, known for speed and agility | Ambush predator, known for power and stealth |
| Reproduction | Ovoviviparous (eggs develop inside the mother’s body) | Ovoviviparous (eggs develop inside the mother’s body) |
| Unique Characteristics | Known for leaping out of the water at high speeds | Known for breaching the water during predatory attacks |
Shark Rams Into Kayaker: Wrapping Up
While Potter managed to escape unharmed, the incident highlights the potential dangers that lurk in the wild waters. It is a testament to Potter’s experience and quick thinking that he could navigate away from the danger, living to tell the tale of his heart-stopping adventure.
Thank you for reading this article about the shark that rams into this seasoned kayaker! If you haven’t had enough of one of the ocean’s most stealthy predators, keep reading with us:
- Man Saves Endangered Shark Close To Death
- Humans Help Turtle Escape From Tiger Shark Attack
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Tom
Thursday 21st of September 2023
So what happened to the seal? Did it manage to fully escape the shark?