Best of Sharks & Rays on 'Born to be Wild'

Sharks are some of the most feared creatures underwater.  They are also some of the most misunderstood. But divers like Kiko Rustia and original Born to be Wild host Doc Ferds Recio attest that seeing them in their natural habitat can inspire awe, instead of fright. In Moalboal, Cebu for example, a captivating scene was caught on video—a thresher shark ready to attack a school of sardines.    

But beyond their beauty, some experts believe that sharks are the ‘next big thing’ on the conservation front, as their numbers continue to decline with excessive harvesting. How is it that these apex predators, kings of the ocean, now face the threat of extinction?    

Meanwhile, like eagles “flying” under the sea, rays remain some of the most sought after creatures by any diver. Rays are close relatives of sharks. They are a type of flattened fish whose “wings” or fins make them appear as if they are flying underwater. But long considered a food item in some communities, certain species of rays are declining in number and have made the IUCN red list of threatened species.  Some researchers believe that the giant manta and other species of rays may be wiped out within our generation. Harvesting of ray species faster than their ability to reproduce is seen as the main reason for the decline in their numbers.    

Relive the best of “Sharks and Rays” on BORN TO BE WILD this Wednesday after Saksi!