CURIOUS SHARKS BUMP AND BITE CAMERA IN WILD UNDERWATER ENCOUNTER WITH PIX AND VID By Shuk Yee Tsang They may be some of the ocean’s top predators but in this encounter, these sharks behave more like curious “sea dogs,” sniffing, nudging, and even trying to chew on the camera. The footage was captured by Ken Kiefer, 56, a professional photographer from Texas, USA, who has spent more than two decades filming sharks. Filmed around 30 miles off the coast of Grand Bahama, the clips show sharks circling closely before bumping into the camera lens and testing it with their mouths, much like a dog investigating a new toy. In some shots, the sharks are seen enjoying belly rubs. The area is a known hotspot for sharks due to its deep-water drop-offs and rich feeding grounds, with some individuals even recognised by scientists over time. While the interaction may look playful, Ken stresses that working this close to apex predators requires serious experience and constant awareness. Ken said “The sharks come near us because they smell the cut-up fish and chum that we use to attract them. “They aren't exactly sure where the fish parts are, so they go around bumping things that are near the smell. “I put myself near the bait to get really close-up images this also results in them bumping into my camera. “Sometimes I have to push their nose to move them in another direction. “The scientists have named several of the tiger sharks that frequent this area and can identify many of them by their markings. “They are ambush predators so they like to sneak up and chomp.” END
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