Tourists ordered out of the sea in Spain after a shark was spotted

Tourists have been ordered out of the water after lifeguards spotted a shark in the sea at a popular Spanish beach. Emergency services were called after a shark was spotted off Arenal d’en Castell on Monday.

Lifeguards immediately called for backup and used red flags to alert those in the sea and on the beach of danger. The fish, identified as a blue shark, was seen swimming across the bay.

The beach in Menorca was closed on Sunday around 15.30. Sharks have been spotted in the area in previous years.

A blue shark is characterized by its slender body and distinctive blue color. They are one of the most widespread shark species, found in temperate and tropical waters around the world.

Blue sharks are usually seen in the open ocean, often far from coastal areas, not often coming close to beaches. In general, blue sharks are not considered a significant threat. They are known to be curious and may investigate boats or divers, but rarely pose a danger unless provoked or mishandled.

Like most sharks, they have the potential to bite if they feel threatened or mistake a human for prey, but attacks on humans are extremely rare. While blue sharks have been involved in some incidents, these are rare compared to other, more aggressive shark species.

Most encounters with blue sharks occur when they are caught by fishermen, as they are often targeted for fins and meat. They are not considered a significant threat to humans.