Greatest Shoal on Earth (2000)

The Sardine Run - One of the most spectacular marine wildlife events in the world. Millions of sardines swim along the South coast of Africa pursued by thousands of dolphins, countless sharks and gannets, all competing for nature's bounty. Meanwhile, every fisherman on the south coast of Africa also races to exploit the generosity of this vast ocean. This action packed, visually spectacular film follows the passionate quest of director / cameraman, Peter Lamberti, and his dedicated crew as they chase the sardines racing along South Africa's Wild Coast shadowed by an assortment of predators. Sharks, dolphins, seals, gannets and many other animals join this gala, frantic to indulge in the great feast. Whales, sharks and gamefish compete to keep up with this moving buffet. Inadvertently, the various predators start to act co-operatively. Copper sharks and Common dolphins team up, herding the shoals close to the surface, making it easier for the seabirds to plunge in and take their share. From the air and from below, the hunt is on. For the local Shark's Board it is a particularly tense time, having to remove the shark nets from the sea to avoid shark and dolphin casualties. As the sardines head up the coastline the action intensifies, on the Natal Coast humans join in the attack. Fishermen and local inhabitants wait all year for this bonanza. As the nets are hauled up on the beach, the frenzy continues with onlookers grabbing handfulls, stuffing fish in bags and pockets. Etiquette forgotten, fights break out as the people grapple with each other to seize as many fish as possible. The sensational under water footage of "The Greatest Shoal on Earth" reveals one of the most incredible spectacles of the planet's oceans .