Great White Sharks Spotted Near North Carolina, California Coasts

A massive great white shark weighing over 1,400 pounds and measuring 13 feet 3 inches, named 'Breton,' has been tracked off the North Carolina coast by OCEARCH, a non-profit specializing in ocean research and shark conservation. OCEARCH's tagging efforts provide valuable data on genetics, health, migration, and reproductive behaviors of great white sharks, aiding in mapping essential habitats and informing conservation efforts along the U.S. Atlantic coast. Meanwhile, a 15-foot great white shark was recently spotted very close to the Santa Monica Pier in California, captured on drone footage by local photographer Carlos Gauna, highlighting the presence of adult sharks in areas typically known for juvenile sharks. Gauna emphasized that such sightings demonstrate a healthy coastal ecosystem and underscore how rare shark attacks remain despite the proximity of these apex predators to popular beaches. Both sightings contribute to a better understanding of great white sharks' behaviors and habitats on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, reflecting ongoing efforts to study and conserve these important marine animals. These observations help challenge assumptions about shark populations and promote greater awareness of ocean biodiversity.