Snorkellers in the Maldives\u2019 Hanifaru Bay caught the world\u2019s largest fish having a midnight feast when they saw a whale shark pausing in the water to gulp down tiny prey.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen\u00a0whale sharks<\/a>\u00a0are cruising, they pass by within seconds,\u201d says Rasikh Hussain, assistant base leader at\u00a0Milaidhoo Maldives.<\/a>\u00a0\u201cBut when they are feeding, especially during vertical feeding, they remain in one spot long enough to truly observe them.\u201d<\/p>\n Hussain particularly loves to see these vast animals vertical feeding: when they position themselves upright in the water and gobble down prey. \u201cIt\u2019s a rare privilege to witness,\u201d he says.\u00a0\u201cSightings like this are largely a matter of timing and a little bit of luck.\u201d<\/p>\n See the amazing moment the whale shark opens its mouth to engulf its prey. Credit: @raakkyy<\/p>\n Hungry whale sharks typically follow plankton blooms, which are what attract them to the Maldives\u2019 Baa Atoll \u2013 usually between May and November. “Hanifaru Bay is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is strictly protected,” says Hussain. “The bay\u2019s natural structure acts almost like a funnel, during strong western currents, plankton is pushed into the bay and concentrated there.”<\/p>\n Manta rays<\/a>\u00a0are also tempted to the area by this plentiful feast.\u00a0<\/p>\n Seeing the graceful movements of these ocean giants up close is very special, says Hussain: \u201cYou feel incredibly small yet deeply connected to something much larger than yourself. It is a powerful reminder of why protecting these marine habitats is so important.\u201d<\/p>\n Video and image credit: @raakkyy<\/a><\/p>\n More amazing wildlife stories from around the world<\/p>\n