In Portland, Maine, scientists from a Boston aquarium are urging beachgoers to report any sightings of white sharks this holiday weekend after signs of shark bites were found on various marine mammals. As Memorial Day weekend approaches, which marks the unofficial start of summer in New England, the region has already been experiencing beach weather. John Chisholm, an adjunct scientist at the New England Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, emphasized the importance of being alert for sharks, specifically great whites, as this is the time of year when they typically move to inshore waters to hunt seals. While no white sharks have been spotted yet this season, it is known that they are in the area, prompting a reminder for people to review shark safety guidelines and be cautious.
Chisholm advised beachgoers to stay informed about the presence of sharks in shallow waters and to avoid areas where seals or schools of fish are present. The public can report sightings of white sharks through the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy’s Sharktivity app. Increased sightings of sharks have been a popular topic of discussion in New England in recent years, prompting efforts to better track white sharks along the East Coast. Last month, the white shark conservancy announced that it had deployed its second camera tag on a white shark, which is critical for understanding the northwest Atlantic white shark population. The device was attached to the fin of a female white shark off the coast of South Carolina with the help of charter captain Chip Michalove, who expressed surprise at the opportunity to apply this technology to study great white sharks.
The use of camera tags on white sharks aims to provide a new perspective and insight into the behavior and movements of these apex predators. By attaching these cameras to the fins of sharks, researchers can gather valuable data on their activities and habitats, ultimately contributing to shark conservation efforts. The goal is to improve our understanding of white sharks and their interactions with their environment, as well as to raise awareness among the public about the importance of protecting these species. With the summer season fast approaching and more people hitting the beaches, it is crucial for everyone to be well-informed and educated about shark safety measures, as well as to collaborate in reporting any sightings or encounters with white sharks to aid in ongoing research and conservation efforts.
As the holiday weekend approaches and more people flock to the beaches, it is essential for beachgoers to stay vigilant and cautious while enjoying the coastal waters. By following shark safety guidelines, avoiding areas where sharks may be feeding, and reporting any sightings through the designated app, individuals can contribute to the conservation of white sharks and help protect these fascinating creatures. With ongoing efforts to better track and understand white sharks, researchers are hopeful that advancements in technology and public awareness will lead to a greater appreciation and protection of these iconic marine species. As beach season kicks off in New England, the call to be “shark smart” serves as a reminder of the importance of coexisting with sharks in their natural habitat and working towards a harmonious relationship between humans and marine life.
