World’s Largest Great White Shark Resurfaces Off North Carolina Beaches

The world's largest great white shark, a 14-foot, 30-year-old male named "Contender," has been tracked traveling 1,870 miles since being tagged off the coast of Florida by OCEARCH in January. After a nearly month-long disappearance from tracking, the shark resurfaced near Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, raising concerns about its potential approach to popular beaches this summer. Experts, including OCEARCH data scientist John Tyminski, caution that while the likelihood of "Contender" visiting crowded shores is remote, it is possible if its prey, such as schooling fish or seals, come closer to shore. Scientists advise beachgoers to use common sense when swimming and be aware of natural predator behavior linked to food sources. OCEARCH Chief Scientist Dr. Harley Newton noted that this season allows researchers to observe Contender's migration to summer foraging areas, potentially in the northeastern U.S. or Canada, including Cape Cod or Nova Scotia. The shark's tracking contributes valuable data on migration patterns to help protect marine ecosystems.