More And More Sharks Are Being Spotted Around Maine And Here's What You Should Know
By Michelle|Published August 22, 2020
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Maine’s got the longest coastline America and that means lots of places to swim, fish, splash and have fun. With so much of the year spent wearing jackets Mainers relish the summer and early fall months when we can get outside and enjoy all that coast. The smell of salty breezes, the sound of seagulls and searching for seashells are just a few of the reasons you can find us there whenever possible. But, one thing has plagued the coast this year and that’s sharks. Curious about this recent increase in sightings? We’ve got the lowdown.
Maine's coast has been a vacation destination for as long as anyone can remember. And, for good reason! The rocky landscape mixed with sandy beaches offers some of the most pristine beauty in New England.
But this summer, trips to the water have been a bit stress-inducing for some people. The first fatal shark attack in Maine history took place in July just off the coast of Bailey Island. With this news came reports of other sightings up and down the coast. To date, there have been 6 Great White shark sightings in Maine waters.
Just after the attack, other shark sightings were reported off Popham Beach, Crescent Beach, and most recently Wells. Regulations were put in place mandating that beachgoers only go in as far as their knees or ankles in some places. While these regulations have since been lifted, patrols are ongoing to ensure the safety of those in and near the water.
But why have there been so many shark sightings this year? Officials say that a mix of conservation efforts and a warmer Gulf of Maine. has increased the number of seals in the water.
While the news has been troublesome for many, the reality is that Maine is home to no less than 8 different shark species. And they've always been here. They are the Spiny Dogfish, Blue Shark, Basking Shark, Shortfin Mako, Porbeagle, Thresher, Sand Tiger Shark, and (the most famous!) the Great White Shark.
Experts suggest keeping a few things in mind before venturing into the water. First, stay calm. Most sharks won't attack unless provoked or if they believe you're potential food. Also, have an evacuation plan in mind which includes knowing where the closest hospital is. You should also be prepared to slow down your movements as thrashing can remind them of prey. It's helpful to have some first-aid in mind as well. You can also fight back using quick, downward motions.
But the most important thing to keep in mind is staying careful while still having fun. Shark attacks are rare and the fear of one should not be enough to keep you from having fun. Just follow posted rules and advice from local lifeguards and enjoy the beach for as long as you can!
You can learn more about how to stay safe around sharks in this news article. Have you visited any of the beaches where sharks have been sighted? Tell us how you’re visiting beaches safely!
