KOTA KINABALU: The sightings of more juvenile whale sharks off Kota Kinabalu waters could be due to improved global protection of the species.
Downbelow Marine and Wildlife Adventures managing director Richard Swann said this has been a good year as more sharks have come here.
He said it was normal for whale sharks to revisit the same areas annually. For Kota Kinabalu waters, the sightings could be seen earliest in January.
"The peak time would be the first week of March. But it could continue up to May but it could also be just a random one.
"My first (whale shark) shot of the season was taken last week on March 1st. Ever since that sighting, we have seen it on most of the days.
"There are lots of smaller sharks this year which I expect is due to improved global protection of the species In recent years," he said, adding it was hard to tell whether they are the same individuals but he has helped scientists by contributing data through Sharkbook: Wildbook for Sharks.
Swann, who has been diving here for 25 years, added that the frequent sighting of the species was also due to above average krill this year.
The name "krill" comes from the Norwegian word krill, meaning "small fry of fish", which is also often attributed to species of fish and found in all the world's oceans.
The five-star PADI platinum course director also said Krill are as spectacular as the sharks which come to surface waters to feed on algae thus the species becomes a primary source of nutrients in the ocean food chain.
With a reputation of finding whale sharks, Swann said a lot of divers come to him to try their luck to see the giant animal.
"Some are fortunate, some are not. Usually most encounters are while snorkelling as you can jump in quickly if you see them. Whale sharks are very good for business (tourism)."