Thresher sharks are known to leap from the sea

Continue reading the main story
Related Stories

Shy Risso's dolphins found off coast
'Superpod' of dolphins spotted in Wales Watch
Protect porpoise stronghold call

A thresher shark has been photographed leaping out of the water off the coast of Pembrokeshire.

The Sea Trust, which took the picture, said the "very large" shark was estimated to be four metres (about 13ft) long.

It was spotted with a large pod of common dolphins during a survey in the Bristol Channel on Monday.

The Trust says the species is a rare sight in UK waters, with just six spotted in 2012 and two in 2011.

Thresher sharks have distinctive long tails and are known for breaching - or leaping - clear of the sea surface.

During the same trip, from Milford Haven, Sea Trust volunteers saw "pod after pod" of dolphins, many of which were pregnant or with newborn calves.

Admin316