The Calgary Zoo is backing an alderman’s motion to ban shark fins in Calgary.

The head of the Zoo’s Conservation Research says sharks are needed to help regulate the health of our ocean’s ecosystem.

Dr. Axel Moehrenschlager says shark finning is cruel.  

“Shark finning is not only unsustainable, but also cruel. When millions of sharks are caught each year, their fins are cut off, and they are thrown back into the water alive to die slowly,” he said.

“As an organization dedicated to both conservation and animal welfare, we urge the City of Calgary to show leadership in the protection of sharks, and hence the oceans we depend upon.”

Alderman Brian Pincott’s motion to ban the possession of shark fins in the City of Calgary will go before council on Monday.