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First Great White Shark Sighting of the Season Off Nantucket

Beach sign alerting visitors to be cautious of great white sharks in the area.

News Summary

The New England Aquarium has confirmed the first sighting of a great white shark this season near Nantucket, Massachusetts. A witness reported the shark pursuing a seal, raising concerns about beach safety. Experts advise beachgoers to stay vigilant and avoid areas with visible seals. They can report shark sightings using the Sharktivity app, which aids in monitoring shark activity. Although the return of great whites may spark fear, fatal attacks in Massachusetts are rare, indicating a recovering marine ecosystem. The aquarium emphasizes awareness and preparedness for safe beach outings.

Nantucket, Massachusetts – The New England Aquarium has confirmed the season’s first sighting of a great white shark in Massachusetts waters. This sighting occurred off of Nantucket on Sunday, setting off warnings for beachgoers to remain ‘shark smart’ as these marine predators return to the area.

A witness reported seeing a pool of blood near Smith’s Point in Madaket, followed by a seal swimming toward the beach with a great white shark in pursuit. In a subsequent investigation, shark biologist John Chisholm analyzed photographs of the seal’s injuries and determined they were caused by a great white shark. This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with the return of sharks to New England’s inshore waters, particularly as they hunt for seals and other prey during this time of year.

Beachgoers are urged to be vigilant of the presence of sharks in shallow waters. It is recommended to avoid areas where seals or schools of fish are visible. Experts emphasize that staying close to the shore is essential for safety, enabling emergency responders to reach swimmers quickly if necessary.

The public is encouraged to report shark sightings using the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s Sharktivity app, which provides real-time updates on white shark activity and movements in the region. The reports contribute to ongoing efforts in shark observation and research.

This period marks the typical return of great white sharks to New England, with most arriving by mid-June. Cape Cod and the Islands have been identified as hotspots for shark activity due to their proximity to large populations of seals. In recent years, sightings of sharks off the coast of Maine have also been increasing, indicating a growing presence in northern waters.

While the presence of great white sharks raises concerns among beachgoers, fatal shark attacks in Massachusetts are exceptionally rare. The last known incident occurred in 2018, when a man died while boogie boarding at Newcomb Hollow Beach in Wellfleet, marking the first fatality since 1936. The rise in shark sightings may suggest a recovering marine ecosystem, fostering an environment where seals and, subsequently, great white sharks thrive.

The New England Aquarium works closely with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy to enhance understanding of shark populations through scientific research and public education. The aquarium is home to a dedicated team of nine scientists focused on studying various shark species and implementing innovative tagging technologies. These efforts aim to monitor shark habitats and behavior effectively.

In total, there are over 15 different shark species present in New England waters depending on the season. However, as the great white sharks return to the region, it becomes increasingly significant for swimmers and surfers to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

As the season progresses, awareness and preparedness will be crucial for ensuring safe beach outings. The New England Aquarium continues to provide resources and information to help the public stay informed and enjoy the beautiful coastline while respecting nature’s wild inhabitants.