In Western Australia, the government has issued an order to kill a great white shark that has been frequently spotted in the area since Christmas. Under Australian law, great white sharks are normally a protected species, but under a new “imminent threat” guideline, officials are able to kill the creature if they feel it poses a threat to humans. As of now, the shark has not yet exhibited any aggressive behavior, but has only been seen trafficking beaches that people frequent.
The imminent threat guideline stems from a series of five fatal attacks that occurred in a 10-month period in the area last year. If Australian fisheries succeed in catching the shark, it will mark the first time a shark has been killed under the imminent threat guideline.
Read more at theaustralian.com.au.