Contender, the largest great white shark ever tagged in the Atlantic is recored as it moves north toward the US East Coast. Warning was issuead on June 7, when this giant shark reappeared near North Carolina.
Tracking Technology Delivers Real-Time Insights
Contender is fitted with a SPOT satellite tag that transmits location data each time its dorsal fin breaks the surface—though transmissions can pause when the shark dives deep, as happened between late May and early June. This technology allows experts to monitor its path in real time, uncovering details about its migration and feeding behaviors.
Northward Migration & Strategic Stopovers
This time of year, mature great whites like Contender leave their southern wintering grounds and head northward to summer foraging locations, including the Outer Banks and northeastern US/Atlantic Canada, where prey is plentiful. Experts believe Contender paused near Outer Banks/Pamlico Sound to feed and build energy reserves before continuing a journey that could span more than 1,000 miles.
Beachgoers Urged to Stay Informed—But Not Alarmed
While the shark’s size and proximity to popular beaches may spark alarm, experts stress that Contender remains a safe distance offshore, with no recent sightings closer to swimmers. Dr. Harley Newton, OCEARCH’s chief scientist, highlights that such movements are natural and underscores the importance of the SPOT tag, which alerts both scientists and the public to potential coastal approaches.
Conservation Science in Action
Tracking Contender offers invaluable data for shark conservation. Over a projected five-year span, the tag will help researchers map migration routes, feeding zones, and behaviors—informing policies on marine protection, habitat management, and shark safety initiatives for coastal communities.
Ecological Significance of Contender’s Journey
As a mature male around 30–32 years old, Contender plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Great white sharks help maintain marine balance by preying on seals and other mid-level species, with movements influenced by environmental factors like prey availability and seasonal currents. The Outer Banks stop reflects this natural ecological rhythm.
What You Should Know for Beach Safety
Track the shark via OCEARCH’s Global Shark Tracker, which logs each ping in real time.
- Stick to safety notices—follow beach advisories and swim only in designated areas patrolled by lifeguards.
- Avoid fishing or bringing bait into the water, which can attract big predators.
- Understand that shark sightings are rare, and sharks typically remain beyond swimming distance, often hovering in waters deeper than 20–30 feet.
A Broader View on Shark Migration
Contender isn’t alone—other tagged sharks follow similar seasonal routes up the Atlantic, reinforcing that these predators are migratory and purposeful, not random coastal wanderers . Real-time tracking is transforming our understanding of shark ecology and enabling data-driven conservation and public safety efforts.
Final Thoughts
Contender’s northward trek underscores the intersection of marine science and public awareness. Its migration toward popular beach destinations may spark concern, but it also offers a rare chance to observe nature in action, learn from cutting-edge tracking, and reinforce marine stewardship. Stay informed, respect ocean ecosystems—and enjoy a safe summer by the sea. Marine researchers urge caution, curiosity, and respect for ocean wildlife behavior.
