Don’t Pet This Shark

Ramsey often poses with sharks. She wants people to see that sharks are not monsters. Sharks actually need our protection. Each year, between 70 million and 100 million sharks are killed by humans. Most are hunted for their fins. Shark fin soup is a prized dish in some countries. Now, many species of sharks are in danger of dying out.

When it comes to protecting sharks, we should all care as much as Ramsey. Still, scientists were shocked by her photos. Getting so close to a shark is dangerous for humans—and sharks.

And Ramsey isn’t the only one snapping photos of wild animals. Social media is filled with photos of people hugging elephants and cuddling lion cubs. This can be dangerous for humans. It can also be harmful to the animals.

Experts say wild animals are just that—wild. While it’s OK to take photos of these creatures, do it from far away. And avoid taking photos with animals that are being held or hugged, or can hurt you.

So yes, learn everything you can about sharks and wild animals. And work to protect them. But if you want a good animal photo, pose with your pet dog.