What is the best time to go to Shark Bay?
The best time to visit Monkey Mia and Shark Bay is anytime between April and October, when you can experience warm, sunny days with clear, blue skies.
Does it rain in Shark Bay?
Shark Bay has a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is 26.5ºC and the average annual rainfall is 228 mm. This mild climate is paired with a sometimes intense southerly wind, especially between October and April.
Where are stromatolites found in Australia?
Hamelin Pool in Western Australia is one of only two places on earth where living marine stromatolites exist, and the location contains by far the biggest colony on earth. Stromatolites which are found up to a metre high are believed to grow at a maximum of 0.3mm per year – they are truly “living fossils”.
How is climate change affecting Shark Bay?
Climate changes such as changes in air temperature and in the intensity and frequency of storms and extreme marine heat events are expected to threaten the resilience of areas in Shark Bay and the outstanding universal value of the area that led to its World Heritage listing.
How many days do you need in Shark Bay?
Spending five days to a week will give you enough time to tick everything off. Consider splitting your stay between Denham and Monkey Mia; Denham for day trips and adventure, Monkey Mia for staying-put, relaxation and play.
What animals are in Shark Bay?
Shark Bay Marine Park is known for its large marine animals, such as the famous Monkey Mia dolphins, turtles, dugongs and sharks. The park and its vast seagrass banks form an important part of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
How old are stromatolites in Shark Bay?
3.5 billion years ago
These creatures are monuments to life on Earth over 3.5 billion years ago; a time when no other complex creatures were present on the planet.
Why is Shark Bay threatened?
Shark Bay is especially vulnerable to future climate change, given that the temperate seagrass that underpins the entire ecosystem is already living at the upper edge of its tolerable temperature range. The region is also threatened by increasingly frequent and intense storms, and warming air temperatures.
What are the problems in Shark Bay?
“Shark Bay has High Vulnerability to potential impacts of three key climate stressors – Air Temperature Change, Storm Intensity and Frequency, and Extreme Marine Heat Events – by 2050, with a low capacity for the system to adapt to climate change,” Dr Heron said.
Where the red sand meets the sea?
Paddling with the locals Take a set of goggles with you and swim alongside fish, sting rays and the occasional turtle in the crystal-clear waters.