This past weekend National Geographic launched its Annual Sharkfest, the five-week-long programming event packed with a slew of new specials aimed at uncovering more secrets to the ocean's most feared predator. Now in its 8th year, Sharkfest continues to provide viewers with an educational and entertaining way of understanding the species, but after 8 years and umpteen specials, what more could be left to know about these creatures? Apparently, a lot. Marine Ecologist Dr. Mike Heithaus is just one of the hosts providing new specials for Sharkfest and is no stranger to the network. In addition to Sharkano (premiered July 21 at 10 p.m. with repeat viewings available by checking your local listings), he's shining a light on one of the ocean's most feared sharks in the premiere of Raging Bull Shark (July 26, at 8 p.m.). "They are big amazing predators who need to be respected," he told MediaVillage recently. "What a perfectly adapted animal to their environment, and If I am going to see one underwater, I want to be in a cage. They are one of the only sharks that are going to go after something their own body size, other [Sharks] will go after something about 10% of their body size. They'll often attack dolphins of equal size which is pretty impressive, and they use their environment really well and are usually more common in murky waters. We got to highlight that in Sharkano by stirring up the waters, and while we couldn't see beyond our masks, using sonar you can see them navigate that water."
National Geographic's Mike Heithaus on Sharkfest 2020
