Sardine Run: Nature’s Greatest Marine Migration

The South African Sardine Run stands as one of the planet’s most spectacular natural phenomena, often called the “greatest shoal on Earth.”

This massive migration rivals the great herds of the Serengeti in terms of biomass and ecological significance.

Each year, billions of South African sardines (Sardinops sagax) embark on a perilous journey along the eastern coast of South Africa, creating a moving feast that attracts countless marine predators in a dramatic display of nature’s food chain in action.

This extraordinary event, visible from space and aircraft, creates a biological cascade that transforms the coastal waters of South Africa into one of the most dynamic marine ecosystems on the planet.

The shimmering mass of sardines, stretching over 7 kilometers long, 1.5 kilometers wide, and 30 meters deep, represents the largest biomass migration on Earth and offers a window into the complex interplay of oceanography, climate, and marine biology.

What is the Sardine Run?

The Sardine Run is an annual migration of billions of South African sardines (Sardinops sagax) that travel northward from the cooler waters of the Agulhas Bank up along the eastern coast of South Africa to the warmer waters of KwaZulu-Natal in the Indian Ocean. This natural spectacle typically occurs between May and July each year, though recent scientific studies have documented a gradual shift in timing due to climate change.

The scale of this migration is truly staggering. The massive shoal can extend over 7 kilometers in length, 1.5 kilometers in width, and reach depths of 30 meters. The density of fish is so great that the shoal appears as a dark, moving mass when viewed from above, and satellite imagery has captured the immense scale of this biological phenomenon.

What makes the Sardine Run particularly remarkable is that recent scientific research published in Science Advances (September 2021) has revealed that this migration may not benefit the sardines at all. The study, led by Professor Peter Teske from the University of Johannesburg, suggests that the Sardine Run represents “relic spawning behavior dating back to the previous glacial period” and may actually be an “ecological trap” rather than an adaptive survival strategy. This groundbreaking research indicates that the sardines that participate in the run experience higher mortality rates and reduced reproductive success compared to those that remain in their core range.

Historical Context and Documentation

The Sardine Run has been observed and documented along the South African coast for nearly a century. The first newspaper accounts of the phenomenon date back to the 1920s, with regular documentation beginning in the 1940s. Indigenous coastal communities have likely been aware of and benefited from this annual event for centuries before formal documentation began.

A comprehensive study published in 2019 analyzed 66 years of records (1946-2012) from local newspapers, scientific observations, and fishing records to track the timing and patterns of the Sardine Run. This research, conducted by scientists from the South African Environmental Observation Network and Nelson Mandela University, found that the timing of the run has been gradually shifting, with sardines arriving approximately 1.3 days later per decade over the study period.

Historical records also show that the Sardine Run has occasionally failed to materialize. Notable absences occurred in 2003 and 2006, raising concerns about the impact of climate change and overfishing on this natural phenomenon. These historical gaps provide valuable data points for scientists studying the environmental factors that influence the migration.

What Factors Trigger the Sardine Migration?

The Sardine Run is triggered by a complex interplay of oceanographic, climatic, and biological factors:

Temperature Thresholds

Water temperature plays a crucial role in initiating the migration. Sardines prefer cooler water temperatures below 21°C (70°F). As winter approaches in the Southern Hemisphere, cooler currents flow northward along the South African coast, creating a narrow corridor of suitable habitat that the sardines follow. Recent research indicates that even slight increases in ocean temperature can disrupt this pattern, potentially explaining why the run has become less predictable in recent years.

Ocean Currents and Upwelling

The Agulhas Current, one of the strongest western boundary currents in the world, flows southward along the east coast of Africa. During winter months, a countercurrent develops closer to shore, flowing northward and creating conditions favorable for the sardines’ migration. Upwelling events bring nutrient-rich water from the deep ocean to the surface, supporting plankton blooms that provide food for the sardines.

Plankton Availability

The abundance of phytoplankton and zooplankton, which constitute the primary food source for sardines, significantly influences the timing and route of the migration. The cold water upwelling along the Agulhas Bank creates ideal conditions for plankton to flourish, providing rich feeding grounds for the sardines.

Reproductive Cycles

Traditionally, it was believed that the Sardine Run was primarily driven by spawning behavior, with sardines seeking suitable breeding grounds. However, the 2021 Science Advances study challenges this view, suggesting that the run may represent an evolutionary mismatch—a relic behavior that persists despite no longer providing reproductive advantages in the current climate regime.

Climate Change Impacts

Research published in the African Journal of Marine Science has documented a significant shift in the timing of the Sardine Run, with sardines arriving approximately 1.3 days later per decade over the period 1946-2012. This phenological shift is attributed to climate change and has created a “mismatch” between the arrival of sardines and the presence of their predators, potentially disrupting the entire ecosystem.

The Route and Geography of the Sardine Run

The Sardine Run follows a distinct geographical route along the eastern coast of South Africa:

Origin: The Agulhas Bank

The migration begins at the Agulhas Bank, a broad, shallow section of the continental shelf located off the southern tip of Africa. This area, where the warm Indian Ocean meets the cooler Atlantic, provides ideal spawning grounds for sardines during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter months.

Eastern Cape Province

From the Agulhas Bank, the sardines move northeastward along the coast of the Eastern Cape Province. Key locations along this stretch include:

• East London: Often the first major coastal city to witness the arrival of the sardines
• Port St. Johns: A prime viewing location situated at the mouth of the Umzimvubu River
• Waterfall Bluff: A remote coastal area offering spectacular views of the migration

KwaZulu-Natal Province

The migration continues into KwaZulu-Natal Province, with notable viewing locations including:

• Port Edward: Often marks the entry point of sardines into KwaZulu-Natal waters
• Margate: A popular tourist destination with good vantage points
• Durban: The northernmost extent of the typical migration route

The sardines generally follow a narrow corridor close to shore, typically within 1-2 kilometers of the coastline, where the water temperature remains below their preferred threshold of 21°C. The migration typically ends near Durban, though in exceptional years, sardines have been observed as far north as Cape Vidal.

Role of Predators in the Sardine Run

The Sardine Run creates one of nature’s most spectacular feeding frenzies, attracting a diverse array of predators that have evolved specialized hunting strategies to capitalize on this abundant food source:

Dolphins: The Primary Hunters

Long-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus capensis) serve as the primary hunters during the Sardine Run, with research estimating that up to 18,000 dolphins participate in this event. These intelligent predators employ sophisticated hunting techniques:

1. Echolocation: Dolphins use high-frequency sound waves to locate sardine shoals from distances of up to 100 meters.
2. Herding behavior: Working in coordinated pods of 10-30 individuals, dolphins drive sardines toward the surface and compress them into dense “bait balls.”
3. Carousel feeding: Dolphins take turns swimming through the bait ball, picking off sardines while their pod members maintain the integrity of the ball.

Sharks: Opportunistic Feeders

Several shark species join the feeding frenzy, including:

• Bronze whaler sharks (Carcharhinus brachyurus): These 2-3 meter sharks are among the most numerous during the run.
• Dusky sharks (Carcharhinus obscurus): Larger predators that can reach up to 3.5 meters in length.
• Blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus): Known for their distinctive black-tipped fins, these agile hunters often breach the surface during feeding.
• Zambezi sharks (Carcharhinus leucas): Also known as bull sharks, these powerful predators occasionally join the frenzy.

Sharks typically detect the sardine shoals through vibrations and chemical cues in the water. They employ a technique called “ram feeding,” swimming through the bait ball with their mouths open to engulf multiple sardines at once.

Whales: The Filter Feeders

Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni) are the primary cetacean filter feeders during the Sardine Run. These 12-14 meter whales use a different hunting strategy:

1. Lunge feeding: The whale accelerates toward the bait ball and opens its enormous mouth at the last moment.
2. Engulfing: Unlike the selective feeding of dolphins and sharks, Bryde’s whales can consume hundreds of kilograms of sardines in a single lunge.
3. Filter feeding: After engulfing water and fish, the whale uses its baleen plates to filter out the water while retaining the sardines.

Recent research has documented orcas (Orcinus orca) attending the Sardine Run, where they primarily hunt dolphins rather than sardines, adding another layer to the complex food web.

Seabirds: Aerial Hunters

Cape gannets (Morus capensis) are the most prominent avian predators, often serving as indicators of sardine activity for human observers. These birds:

1. Plunge dive: Gannets spot sardines from heights of up to 30 meters and dive at speeds of 100 km/h.
2. Air sac protection: Special air sacs in their heads and chests absorb the impact of hitting the water.
3. Underwater pursuit: Unlike most seabirds, gannets can swim underwater using their wings to pursue sardines to depths of up to 10 meters.

Other seabird species that participate include African penguins (Spheniscus demersus), cormorants, terns, and gulls, each employing their own specialized hunting techniques.

Cape fur seals: Agile Predators

Cape fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus) join the feeding frenzy, using their exceptional agility and speed to capture sardines. These mammals can dive to depths of over 200 meters and stay submerged for up to 7.5 minutes while hunting.

Predator Coordination and the “Bait Ball” Phenomenon

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the Sardine Run is the formation of “bait balls” – dense, spherical formations of sardines created when predators attack from all sides. These bait balls can range from 3 to 20 meters in diameter and represent a defensive strategy by the sardines, albeit one that ultimately fails against coordinated predator attacks.

Research has documented remarkable instances of apparent coordination between different predator species:

1. Dolphins initially locate and herd sardines toward the surface.
2. Gannets spot the commotion and begin plunge-diving, signaling other aerial predators.
3. Sharks arrive, further compressing the bait ball.
4. Bryde’s whales make dramatic lunges through the concentrated mass of fish.

This multi-species feeding frenzy represents one of the most complex predator-prey interactions observed in nature and has been the subject of numerous scientific studies and documentary films.

How Sardines Benefit from Forming Groups

Despite the high mortality rates during the Sardine Run, shoaling behavior provides several advantages to individual sardines:

Safety in Numbers (The Dilution Effect)

By swimming in massive shoals, individual sardines reduce their probability of being targeted by predators. This “dilution effect” means that even when predators are actively feeding, any individual sardine has a statistically low chance of being captured.

Confusion Effect

The synchronized movement of thousands of similar-looking fish creates a visual confusion effect that makes it difficult for predators to focus on and capture a single target. This effect is particularly effective against visual predators like seabirds and some shark species.

Improved Hydrodynamics

Swimming in a structured shoal reduces energy expenditure through hydrodynamic benefits. Sardines positioned behind others experience reduced water resistance, allowing them to swim more efficiently during the long migration.

Collective Sensing

The “many eyes” principle allows shoals to detect predators more effectively than individual fish could. When a sardine at the edge of the shoal detects a threat and changes direction, this information rapidly propagates through the entire shoal via a chain reaction of movement.

Synchronized Evasion

Sardines have evolved remarkable coordination abilities, enabling them to execute synchronized evasion maneuvers when attacked. These include:

1. Flash expansion: The shoal rapidly expands outward in all directions.
2. Fountain effect: When attacked from below, the shoal splits and streams past the predator on both sides.
3. Vacuole response: The shoal forms a moving hole around a predator, minimizing the number of sardines within striking distance.

However, the 2021 Science Advances study suggests that despite these adaptive behaviors, the Sardine Run itself may represent an evolutionary trap, with the benefits of shoaling outweighed by the risks of migrating into predator-rich waters.

Scientific Research and Recent Discoveries

Recent scientific research has transformed our understanding of the Sardine Run, challenging long-held assumptions and revealing new insights:

The Ecological Trap Hypothesis

The groundbreaking 2021 study published in Science Advances by Teske et al. titled “The sardine run in southeastern Africa is a mass migration into an ecological trap” used genomic analysis to demonstrate that the sardines participating in the run are primarily from the Atlantic Ocean population rather than the Indian Ocean population as previously believed. This finding suggests that the run represents a relic behavior that evolved during the last glacial period when sea temperatures were cooler.

The study concludes that the Sardine Run is an “ecological trap” – a scenario where historically adaptive behavior now leads organisms into habitats that reduce their fitness. In this case, sardines following ancient migratory instincts move into waters where they face extreme predation pressure and reduced reproductive success.

Climate Change Impacts

Research published in the African Journal of Marine Science in 2019 documented a significant shift in the timing of the Sardine Run, with sardines arriving approximately 1.3 days later per decade over the period 1946-2012. This phenological shift has created a “mismatch” between the arrival of sardines and the presence of their predators.

A 2023 study in the journal Marine Ecology Progress Series found that warming ocean temperatures have reduced the suitable habitat corridor along the east coast, making the run more unpredictable and potentially threatening its long-term viability.

Population Dynamics and Conservation

Research by the South African Environmental Observation Network has documented concerning declines in sardine biomass along the east coast of South Africa. Their data shows a 38% reduction in sardine abundance over the past three decades, attributed to a combination of climate change, overfishing, and habitat degradation.

Conservation biologists are particularly concerned about the impacts of declining sardine populations on endangered predators that rely on the run, including:

• African penguins (classified as Endangered by the IUCN)
• Cape gannets (classified as Endangered by the IUCN)
• Various dolphin species that depend on the seasonal abundance of sardines

Conservation Status and Threats

The South African sardine population faces multiple threats that could impact the future of the Sardine Run:

Overfishing

Commercial fishing pressure on sardine stocks has increased significantly in recent decades. The South African sardine fishery, primarily based on the west coast, has annual catch quotas of approximately 250,000 tons. While direct fishing during the Sardine Run is limited, the overall population pressure affects the number of sardines available to participate in the migration.

Climate Change

Rising ocean temperatures represent perhaps the most significant threat to the Sardine Run. Sardines require water temperatures below 21°C, and as global warming continues to increase sea surface temperatures, the narrow corridor of cool water along the east coast is shrinking. Climate models predict that by 2050, suitable habitat conditions along parts of the migration route may disappear entirely during some years.

Ocean acidification, another consequence of climate change, threatens the plankton that sardines feed on, potentially disrupting the entire food web.

Habitat Destruction

Coastal development, pollution, and sedimentation from rivers affect the near-shore habitats that sardines traverse during their migration. Particularly concerning are:

• Industrial and agricultural runoff introducing toxins into coastal waters
• Plastic pollution affecting marine ecosystems
• Increased sedimentation from land-use changes reducing water clarity and affecting plankton production

Unsustainable Tourism

While tourism associated with the Sardine Run brings economic benefits, poorly regulated activities can negatively impact the phenomenon:

• Excessive boat traffic disturbing sardine shoals and predator behavior
• Unethical diving practices disrupting natural predator-prey interactions
• Noise pollution from boats and diving operations affecting marine mammals that rely on sound for hunting

Conservation Efforts

Several initiatives are underway to protect the Sardine Run and the broader ecosystem it supports:

Marine Protected Areas

The migration route of the sardines passes through several Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), including:

• Pondoland MPA: Established in 2004, covering 1,300 square kilometers of coastline
• Aliwal Shoal MPA: Protecting critical reef habitats that support predator populations
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site that protects northern KwaZulu-Natal coastal waters

These protected areas limit commercial fishing and regulate tourism activities, providing refuge for sardines and their predators.

Sustainable Fisheries Management

The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment implements science-based quotas for sardine harvesting, using ecosystem-based management approaches that consider the role of sardines in the broader marine food web.

Research and Monitoring

Ongoing scientific monitoring programs track sardine populations, migration patterns, and the impacts of climate change:

• The South African Environmental Observation Network maintains long-term monitoring stations along the migration route
• Acoustic surveys assess sardine biomass annually
• Satellite tracking of ocean temperatures helps predict the timing and extent of the run

Public Awareness and Education

Conservation organizations conduct outreach programs to educate the public about the ecological importance of the Sardine Run and the threats it faces. These initiatives aim to build support for conservation measures and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Economic Impact and Tourism

The Sardine Run has significant economic implications for coastal communities along the migration route:

Tourism Revenue

The spectacle attracts thousands of tourists annually, generating substantial revenue for local economies:

• Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, and lodges report 85-95% occupancy rates during peak Sardine Run weeks
• Dive operators: Specialized Sardine Run diving packages range from $2,000-$5,000 per person for week-long expeditions
• Boat tours: Daily viewing excursions for non-divers generate additional revenue
• Ancillary services: Restaurants, transportation, and retail businesses benefit from increased visitor numbers

A 2018 economic impact study estimated that Sardine Run tourism contributes approximately R120 million ($7.5 million USD) annually to the economies of Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.

Commercial Fishing

While commercial fishing during the run itself is limited, the event has historically supported small-scale fisheries:

• Beach seine netting: A traditional fishing method where nets are deployed from shore
• Recreational fishing: Anglers target predatory fish that follow the sardine shoals
• Bait collection: Sardines are collected for use as bait in other fisheries

However, research published in the African Journal of Marine Science found that local indigenous communities receive relatively little direct economic benefit from the Sardine Run, with most tourism revenue accruing to established businesses rather than local residents.

Community Development Initiatives

Several projects aim to increase local community participation in Sardine Run tourism:

• Training programs for local guides and boat operators
• Community-owned tourism accommodations
• Cultural tourism initiatives that combine Sardine Run viewing with experiences of indigenous coastal cultures

Best Places and Times to Witness the Sardine Run

For those hoping to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon, timing and location are critical:

Optimal Timing

The Sardine Run typically occurs between mid-May and late July, with peak activity usually in late June to early July. However, climate change has made the timing less predictable, with a trend toward later arrivals in recent years. Based on historical data and expert recommendations:

• May: Early sardine activity typically begins around East London
• June: The run reaches peak intensity along the Eastern Cape coast
• Late June to early July: Optimal viewing in northern Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal
• Mid to late July: The run typically reaches Durban and begins to disperse

Marine biologists recommend planning flexible itineraries with at least 5-7 days in the region to maximize chances of witnessing significant activity.

Prime Viewing Locations

Several locations along the migration route offer excellent opportunities to witness the Sardine Run:

Eastern Cape Province

• Port St. Johns: Often considered the epicenter of Sardine Run activity, this coastal town offers excellent boat-based viewing and diving opportunities. The confluence of the Umzimvubu River and the ocean creates dynamic conditions favorable for predator activity.
• Coffee Bay: This scenic location provides good shore-based viewing opportunities and boat tours.
• Waterfall Bluff: A remote coastal area accessible only by 4×4 vehicle or hiking, offering spectacular views from cliff tops.

KwaZulu-Natal Province

• Port Edward: Often marks the entry point of sardines into KwaZulu-Natal waters, with good shore and boat-based viewing.
• Margate and Ramsgate: Popular tourist destinations with organized boat tours and diving operations.
• Durban: The northernmost extent of the typical migration route, offering urban-based access to viewing opportunities.

Viewing Options

Several options exist for witnessing the Sardine Run:

Shore-Based Viewing

Coastal viewpoints allow observers to see sardine shoals and predator activity from land. Best locations include:

• Elevated headlands and cliffs that provide panoramic views
• River mouths where sardines often congregate
• Beaches where “sardine fever” may bring fish close to shore

Boat-Based Viewing

Specialized boat tours take visitors to active areas:

• Rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIBs) provide maneuverability and speed
• Larger vessels offer more stability and comfort
• Microlight aircraft tours provide aerial perspectives

Diving and Snorkeling

For the most immersive experience, diving operations offer:

• Surface swimming with snorkel gear when conditions permit
• SCUBA diving with experienced guides
• Specialized photography and videography expeditions

Photography and Videography Tips

Capturing the Sardine Run presents unique challenges and opportunities for photographers and videographers:

Equipment Recommendations

Underwater photographers should consider:

• Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with fast autofocus capabilities in a suitable underwater housing
• Lenses: Both wide-angle (16-35mm) for bait balls and telephoto (70-200mm) for predator action
• Strobes: Powerful underwater strobes are essential in deeper water
• Filters: Red filters for GoPros and other action cameras to restore color at depth

For topside photography:

• Telephoto lenses (200-600mm) for capturing breaching dolphins and diving gannets
• Weather-sealed equipment to withstand salt spray and potential rain
• Polarizing filters to reduce glare from the water surface

Technical Settings

Recommended camera settings for underwater sardine run photography:

• Aperture: f/8 to f/11 for good depth of field
• Shutter speed: 1/125s or faster to freeze action
• ISO: 400-800 for adequate exposure without excessive noise
• Drive mode: Continuous/burst mode to capture peak action
• Focus mode: Continuous autofocus (AI Servo/AF-C) for tracking moving subjects

Positioning and Techniques

Expert photographers recommend:

1. Position with the sun: Try to keep the sun at your back to illuminate the action
2. Look for birds: Diving gannets often indicate where the action is happening
3. Stay with the dolphins: They are typically the primary drivers of bait ball formation
4. Maintain distance: Avoid disrupting predator behavior by keeping a respectful distance
5. Be patient: The most spectacular moments often occur after hours of waiting

Safety Considerations

Photography should never compromise safety:

• Always maintain situational awareness in the water
• Follow guide instructions precisely
• Secure equipment with lanyards to prevent loss
• Be prepared to abandon photography if safety requires it

Professional wildlife photographer Thomas P. Peschak, who has extensively documented the Sardine Run for National Geographic, advises: “The key to capturing quality images of such intense explosions of life is to act the opposite way—diving as quietly and steadily as possible. Abrupt movements scatter both predators and prey.”

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Sardine Run

When is the best time to see the Sardine Run?

The Sardine Run typically occurs between mid-May and late July, with peak activity usually in late June to early July. However, climate change has made the timing less predictable. Marine biologists recommend planning flexible itineraries with at least 5-7 days in the region to maximize chances of witnessing significant activity.

Where is the best place to witness the Sardine Run?

Port St. Johns in the Eastern Cape Province is often considered the epicenter of Sardine Run activity. Other excellent viewing locations include Coffee Bay, Waterfall Bluff, Port Edward, and Margate. The specific location of peak activity varies year to year based on ocean conditions.

How can I participate in Sardine Run diving?

Several specialized dive operators offer Sardine Run expeditions. These typically include 5-7 day packages with daily boat trips to find and dive with sardine shoals and predators. Advanced open water certification is typically required, and experience with drift diving is highly recommended due to the challenging conditions.

Is the Sardine Run affected by climate change?

Yes, research has documented a significant shift in the timing of the Sardine Run, with sardines arriving approximately 1.3 days later per decade over the period 1946-2012. Rising ocean temperatures threaten to disrupt or potentially eliminate the narrow corridor of cool water that the sardines follow, making the run more unpredictable and potentially threatening its long-term viability.

Why do sardines form bait balls?

Bait balls are a defensive strategy. When attacked, sardines instinctively cluster together, creating a spherical formation that minimizes the surface area exposed to predators and creates confusion through coordinated movement. While this strategy evolved to reduce predation risk, during the Sardine Run the overwhelming number and coordination of predators often overcome this defense.

Has the Sardine Run ever not happened?

Yes, the Sardine Run has failed to materialize in some years, most notably in 2003 and 2006. Scientists attribute these absences to anomalous ocean conditions, including warmer-than-normal water temperatures that prevented the formation of the cool water corridor that sardines follow.

Are sardines endangered?

South African sardines (Sardinops sagax) are not currently listed as endangered, but populations have declined significantly in recent decades due to a combination of overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation. The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment implements management measures to maintain sustainable population levels.

Conclusion: The Future of the Greatest Shoal on Earth

The Sardine Run represents one of our planet’s most spectacular natural phenomena—a complex interplay of oceanography, climate, and biology that has evolved over thousands of years. Yet this magnificent event faces an uncertain future.

The groundbreaking research revealing the Sardine Run as an “ecological trap” provides a new lens through which to understand this migration. What once may have been adaptive behavior in a cooler climate now leads billions of sardines into a gauntlet of predators, raising profound questions about evolutionary adaptation in a rapidly changing world.

Climate change poses perhaps the greatest threat, as rising ocean temperatures shrink the corridor of cool water that makes the migration possible. The documented delays in timing create mismatches between sardines and their predators, potentially disrupting entire food webs and the coastal economies that depend on them.

Yet there is hope in the growing awareness of the Sardine Run’s ecological importance and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting it. Marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries management, and ongoing scientific research provide tools to monitor and potentially mitigate threats.

For those fortunate enough to witness the Sardine Run—whether from shore, boat, or immersed among the swirling bait balls—the experience offers a profound connection to the rhythms of ocean life and a visceral reminder of our responsibility to protect such irreplaceable natural wonders.

As we face a future of environmental uncertainty, the Sardine Run stands as both warning and inspiration—a spectacular reminder of nature’s complexity and resilience, and of what we stand to lose if we fail in our stewardship of the natural world.