Whales and sharks in the Adriatic? Panic? Come on! While some are already imagining horror movies with sea predators, experts bring us back to reality: whales and sharks are here not to eat us, but to show how rich and alive the Adriatic still is. In recent days, whales have been spotted near Herceg Novi and a great white shark near Kotor, causing fear and panic among many. But let’s clear things up. Whales are mostly migrants just passing through, and sharks, though rare, are not monsters from movies. In Montenegro, there has been only one recorded shark attack on a human in the mid-20th century, and the last attack in the Adriatic was in 1950 near the island of Vis, when a shark attacked a diver carrying caught fish. So, the statistics are on our side.
Experts warn that panic is unnecessary, but caution is always advisable. Don’t go too far from the shore, avoid swimming at night or in poor visibility, and don’t chase marine animals. Whales and sharks are part of the natural Adriatic ecosystem and should be respected. These animals did not come because of us, but despite us, which means we still have a chance to enjoy preserved nature and biodiversity.
Besides whales and sharks, sea turtles and the rare Mediterranean monk seal have been spotted in the southern Adriatic recently, further confirming the richness of marine life. So next time you see a video of a great white shark or a whale in the Adriatic, remember it’s a sign that nature is still breathing strong. And if panic hits you, remember fear often comes from ignorance. Enjoy the sea, but use your head. And hey, if you have any funny or bizarre encounters with sea creatures, share them — maybe you’ll make us all laugh or teach us something new!
