A group of divers has had an incredible encounter forced upon them by a gentle giant whale shark.
A meeting with a whale shark, which is actually the biggest species of fish in existence according to the Nature Conservancy, is impressive as it is, this, however, was to be much bigger even than that.
As the whale shark approached one of the lone divers, he expected the giant to just glide past as they normally do, but instead, the beautiful creature gently tugged on his hand.
The diver was at first understandably confused and the dive team equally concerned for the welfare of one of their team! Just as quick as the shark had taken his hand he’d let go again once more.
As the shark slowly moved passed him now, he noticed what looked to be a huge commercial fishing rope wrapped around the animal, cutting into its fins.
At this point he wasted no time and not taking a second to consider the risks, he took out a flip knife he happened to be carrying and began working on the rope.
The rescue took less than a minute, but judging by the state of both the rope and the animal’s skin underneath, it is possible the rope had been there for a very long time, possibly even years which must have been an incredible frustration to the huge creature.
While it is a large, intimidating animal and yes, technically a shark — the whale shark does not attack human beings unless provoked or protecting young. It thus is now a great companion for divers.In this case, it would seem this relationship is not only one-sided.
Just listen to the sound the gentle giant makes in thanks as swims off, finally free of its shackles.
Watch the video below… and SHARE this with your friends and family to spread a smile! 🙂
