Great White Shark Surfaces Near New Jersey After Canadian Visit
The great white shark known as Contender has made headlines after resurfacing near southern New Jersey. This notable shark, the largest male of its kind tagged in the Atlantic, was first tagged by OCEARCH in January. At that time, Contender measured nearly 14 feet in length and was located near the Florida-Georgia border.
Since being tagged, Contender has journeyed an impressive distance of over 4,300 miles. His migration took him up the Atlantic Coast during the summer months, reaching Newfoundland, Canada, by late September. Observations indicated he began heading south in late October, with data showing multiple pings as he traveled around Nova Scotia.
Journey Back to New Jersey
On November 12, tracking data revealed Contender had entered New Jersey waters. As of the latest updates, he was spotted off the coast of Atlantic City, weighing in at an impressive 1,650 pounds.
Other Sharks on the Move
Contender is not alone in his migration. OCEARCH has reported that another shark, a female named Ernst, has also been making significant progress southward. Ernst, measuring 12 feet and weighing approximately 1,000 pounds, was last tracked moving towards the Florida Keys after being tagged in early October during an expedition in Nova Scotia.
Migration Patterns
OCEARCH tracking data indicates other shark species, including tiger sharks and hammerheads, are also moving along the Atlantic coast. Great white sharks typically spend summer months in the cooler, prey-rich waters of the north and migrate south in search of warmer temperatures.
This year has seen an increase in shark sightings off the coasts of Maine and Canada, prompting some beach closures and warnings. Fortunately, human-shark interactions remain infrequent despite these sightings.
OCEARCH’s Research and Tracking
OCEARCH’s research aims to deepen understanding of shark behaviors and migration patterns. Each tag provides valuable data for approximately five years, and the organization actively shares tracking information online.
As they continue their research, OCEARCH emphasizes that every ping from the tags contributes valuable insights into the migration patterns of great white sharks. With such ongoing research, the understanding of these magnificent creatures continues to evolve.
