Whale sharks survive by consuming tiny sea creatures called plankton. However they continue to be the victims of poaching, with their fins being sold in the markets of China for thousands of pounds. Photographer Shawn Heinrichs said: "Whale sharks are gentle animals and present zero threat to people. The fishermen we worked with welcomed us to their village. and helped us interact safely and respectfully with the whale sharks. Picture: Shawn Heinrichs / Barcroft Media

Credit : Shawn Heinrichs / Barcroft Media