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The sardine run is one of the biggest marine events on the planet, taking place from May to July when vast shoals of sardines move up the east coast of South Africa.

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The shoals of sardines, measuring as long as 15km, attract a host of voracious predators including thousands of dolphins, sharks, seals, game fish and gannets.

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Common dolphins are responsible for shepherding the tiny fish into a swirling cyclone known as a baitball, driving them to the surface as they take their pickings.

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Once the dolphins have rounded up the sardines, other predators are quick to capitalise. A feeding frenzy ensues as bronze whaler sharks join the fray.

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During the sardine run, the Natal Sharks Board lifts the shark nets designed to protect bathers because of the heavy toll on marine life.

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Tens of thousands of Cape gannets are thought to time their breeding cycle with the sardine run so that their young are fledged at the time of the event.

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From heights of almost 30m, the gannets initiate spectacular plunge dives, hitting the water at 90km/h and reaching depths of 10m or more.

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The presence of humpback whales during the sardine run coincides with their migration from Antarctica to Mozambique where they mate and give birth.