This wild tiger shark, Emma, has been greeting her favorite diver, Jim, for 20 years — and after the pandemic separated them, she was SO excited to see him again
how the other sharks totally behave when he’s interacting with Emma. It’s like she warned them before hand: “Look, Jim’s coming over and I expect you to all be on your best behavior”.
SHE BLINKS AT HIM!!!!! that is some of the biggest evidence of recognition and trust! Sharks do lid their eyes right before biting, but she is unbelievably docile and seeks out physical touch with the diver! That’s the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.
edit: okay. sure. Sharks don’t communicate with their eyes. but its undeniable that she’s looking to be pet with how she interacts with the researcher.
there’s something universal about head pats or petting on the head. Every animal I’ve seen enjoy it always have the same look in their eyes, they always close their eyes giving a happy look.
They love having their sensory system overloaded. Petting their heads and nose is like the best massage you have ever had. LOL What a gorgeous creature.
