Multiple Great White Sharks Spotted Near Maine Beaches

Photo byOleksandr SushkoonUnsplash

Multiple Sightings Over the Weekend

SCARBOROUGH, Maine — Over the last few days, beachgoers and officials in southern Maine have reported several sightings of a great white shark. These reports have heightened awareness and caution among local residents and visitors.

Increasing Shark Sightings

Sharks, including great whites, have become increasingly common off the coast of Maine. Sightings close to shore are no longer a rare occurrence. Scarborough's Marine Resource Officer, Daryen Granata, confirmed that a commercial fisherman reported seeing a shark near Richmond Island on Thursday, July 18.

Paddle Boarders' Encounter

On Friday, July 19, two people on paddle boards at Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth reported seeing a shark. The same day, another sighting was reported at Pine Point Beach in Scarborough. These sightings prompted immediate alerts to ensure public safety.

Dead Seal and More Sightings

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy reported that a dead seal with shark bites was found at Scarborough Beach on Saturday, July 20. Additionally, there was a great white shark sighting near Higgins Beach in Scarborough that same day.

Drone Footage Confirms Shark Presence

On Sunday, July 21, Granata received drone footage from a private owner showing a possible great white shark near Ram Island along the Scarborough/Cape Elizabeth town line. The Maine Department of Marine Resources confirmed it as a great white shark, approximately 8 feet long.

Public Safety and Awareness

Scarborough public safety officials promptly shared the information to ensure the public remains vigilant and cautious. They assured that more details would be provided as they become available.

Historical Context

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy also noted a white shark sighting near Northeast Harbor on Mount Desert Island on Saturday. While shark sightings have increased, it is essential to remember that Maine has only ever had one documented deadly shark attack. Julie Dimperio Holowach, 63, of New York City, was attacked and killed by a great white shark while swimming near Bailey Island in Harpswell in July 2020.

Attribution source: wmtw.com