Sharks in Idaho? 'Shocking discovery' not quite what it seems
The recent discovery of a salmon shark carcass on the bank of the Salmon River in Idaho prompted a quick investigation by state biologists.
“First Smallmouth Bass, then Walleye, and now SALMON SHARKS! When are our salmon and steelhead going to catch a break?” the Idaho Department of Fish and Game complained Wednesday in a news release.
But was the agency really concerned?
Yes, a fairly large salmon shark was found on the bank near Riggins. But no, the state does not have a shark problem.
More from the news release, written by Joe DuPont:
“By the look of it, this does appear to be a Salmon Shark. Salmon Sharks can grow up to 10 ft long and weigh up to almost 1,000 pounds. As indicated by its name, Salmon Sharks like to feed on salmon. So, should we be concerned with this shocking discovery and potential impacts to our salmon and steelhead populations?
“Well………. seeing no sharks have been observed swimming up our fish ladders lately, and the only known shark that can live in freshwater is the Bull Shark, I think it is safe to assume that somebody dropped this on the shore for a good laugh. I certainly have laughed about it. This would have been a great April Fools’ Joke.”
The mention of smallmouth bass and walleye alluded to genuine threats those nonnative species pose to salmon and steelhead.
–Generic salmon shark image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons