Fifty sharks spotted swimming in Sussex in this amazing footage captured by RSPB wardens
The school of sharks - many of whom are 5ft in length - have been identified as smooth-hounds, which are normally found in coastal waters
More than 50 sharks can be seen in this remarkable footage as they swim around in just knee-deep water in Sussex.
Extraordinary video footage has been released showing up to 50 sharks swimming together just off the coast of southern England.
The school of sharks - many of whom are 5ft in length - have been identified as smooth-hounds, which are normally found in coastal waters.
These creatures were caught on camera by an RSPB warden at a nature reserve near Selsey.
Warden Peter Hughes said: "It was astonishing.
"There were just these huge fish everywhere in knee-deep water.
Dozens: Around 50 sharks can seen seen swimming in shallow waters at the nature reserve
Sharks: Identified as the smooth-hound variety they are normally found off the coast
"We knew in time that Medmerry was going to be a great place for wildlife, but I don’t think anyone expected this.
"We assume they were coming in to feed on the crabs and other marine life that have made their home at Medmerry."
Shallow: The animals are around 5ft in length
In June, a few sharks had been spotted at Medmerry, and half a dozen were also spotted in nearby PSRB Pagnam Harbour, but the huge number was unprecedented.
Mr Hughes told the Chichester Observer: "We do not know if the spectacle is going to repeat itself.
“Those wanting to look for the sharks can view from the new footpaths around the perimeter of Medmerry.
“Anyone new to the area should pick up a trail map and get advice from the RSPB Pagham Harbour visitor centre at Sidlesham.”
A smooth-hound can grow up to 159 cm (5 ft 3 ins) long and weigh more than 13 kg (29 lb).
They are a shallow water shark species and regularly come close enough to land to be targeted by the shore angler.
