The Two Oceans Aquarium has successfully released Blue, a female ragged-tooth shark, into the ocean at Struisbaai.
In a statement, the Aquarium said the release occurred on 18 March 2026, and Blue was accompanied by staff to ensure a calm, safe return to the wild.
Two Oceans Aquarium Senior Curator Kevin Spiby says it was a privilege to return one of their largest ragged-tooth sharks to the wild
“Blue spent eight years with us, serving as a powerful ambassador for her species and educating thousands of visitors about the importance of sharks in the marine environment.”
Blue was rescued alongside another ragged-tooth shark, Charlie, on 3 May 2018.
At the time, she weighed 26.6kg and measured 183cm in length. After eight years in the Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit, she had grown to 201kg and 295cm.
For transport to the release site, Blue was carefully placed in a secure, oxygenated chamber on a truck and monitored throughout the journey.
Two Oceans Aquarium Veterinarian Dr Ilse Jenkinson says all precautions were taken, including continuous medical monitoring.
On arrival, final observations and vital signs were recorded before she was lifted from the holding chamber and carried to the water’s edge.
The release follows a long-standing practice by the Aquarium at this time of year, due to there being an existing population in the Struisbaai area, some of which migrate along the Agulhas Bank towards KwaZulu-Natal.
Dr Jenkinson confirmed the success of the release:
“Blue showed healthy vitals and blood parameters during quarantine. The transport went smoothly, and she had a good and strong response before being released back into the ocean.”
