Maine’s rugged coastline and diverse marine environment are home to a variety of shark species.
While the idea of sharing the ocean with sharks may be intimidating to some, these creatures play an important role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
Understanding the types of sharks found in Maine and their behavior can help promote safe coexistence between humans and these fascinating creatures.
Despite their reputation as fierce predators, sharks in Maine generally pose little threat to humans. However, it is important to be aware of their seasonal behavior and to take precautions to avoid potential conflicts.
By monitoring shark populations and promoting safe practices, Maine can continue to be a welcoming environment for both humans and sharks alike.
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Key Takeaways
- Maine’s waters are home to several species of sharks, including porbeagles, blue sharks, and dogfish sharks.
- While sharks in Maine generally pose little threat to humans, it is important to be aware of their seasonal behavior and take precautions.
- By monitoring shark populations and promoting safe practices, Maine can continue to be a welcoming environment for both humans and sharks.
Great White Shark
The Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) is a large predatory shark that can grow up to 20 feet in length. Despite their fearsome reputation, Great White Sharks are not commonly found in Maine’s waters.
However, there have been occasional sightings of these apex predators in the Gulf of Maine.
Shortfin Mako
The Shortfin Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) is a fast-swimming shark that can reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
They are found in temperate and tropical waters around the world, including off the coast of Maine. Shortfin Makos are known for their distinctive, pointed snouts and long, slender bodies.
Porbeagle Shark
The Porbeagle Shark (Lamna nasus) is a species of mackerel shark that is commonly found in the Gulf of Maine.
They can grow up to 12 feet in length and are known for their powerful jaws and sharp teeth.
Porbeagle Sharks are often caught by commercial fishermen in Maine, and their meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.
Thresher Shark
The Thresher Shark (Alopias vulpinus) is a large, pelagic shark that is found in temperate and tropical waters around the world. They are easily recognized by their long, whip-like tails, which they use to stun prey.
Thresher Sharks are occasionally caught by commercial fishermen in Maine, but they are not considered a major target species.
Spiny Dogfish
The Spiny Dogfish (Squalus acanthias) is a small shark that is commonly found in the Gulf of Maine.
They are named for the sharp spines that protrude from their dorsal fins. Spiny Dogfish are often caught by commercial fishermen in Maine, and their meat is used in fish and chips and other dishes.
Blue Shark
The Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) is a pelagic shark that is found in temperate and tropical waters around the world. They are known for their distinctive blue coloration and long, slender bodies.
Blue Sharks are occasionally caught by commercial fishermen in Maine, but they are not considered a major target species.
Basking Shark
The Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus) is a large, filter-feeding shark that is found in temperate and cold waters around the world.
They are the second-largest fish in the world, after the whale shark. Basking Sharks are occasionally seen in the Gulf of Maine, but they are not commonly caught by fishermen.
Sand Tiger Shark
The Sand Tiger Shark (Carcharias taurus) is a species of shark that is commonly found in the Gulf of Maine.
They are known for their sharp, protruding teeth and their habit of swimming close to the surface of the water.
Sand Tiger Sharks are often caught by commercial fishermen in Maine, but they are not considered a major target species.
Shark Population in Maine
Maine is home to a diverse array of shark species, each with unique characteristics and behaviors.
While the exact number of sharks in Maine waters is difficult to determine, experts estimate that there are at least 20 different species of sharks in the area.
Dr. James Sulikowski, a professor of marine science at the University of New England, has conducted extensive research on shark populations in Maine. He notes that the most common species of sharks in Maine are the sand tiger shark, the blue shark, and the porbeagle shark.
According to the Maine Department of Marine Resources, sand tiger sharks are one of the most frequently encountered shark species in Maine waters.
These sharks can reach up to 10 feet in length and are known for their distinctive, jagged teeth. Despite their fearsome appearance, sand tiger sharks are generally not considered a threat to humans.
Blue sharks are another common species in Maine waters. These sharks are known for their striking blue coloration and can grow up to 12 feet in length.
While blue sharks have been known to attack humans in rare cases, they are generally considered to be harmless to humans.
Porbeagle sharks are a third common species in Maine waters. These sharks are similar in appearance to great white sharks, but are smaller and have a more rounded snout. Porbeagle sharks can reach up to 12 feet in length and are known for their impressive speed and agility.
Seasonal Behavior of Sharks
Sharks are found in the waters of Maine throughout the year, but their behavior changes with the seasons.
In the summer, the waters of Maine attract a variety of shark species due to the abundance of food. During the winter months, the waters become too cold for most sharks, and they migrate to warmer areas.
Summer
During the summer months, the waters of Maine are home to several species of sharks, including basking sharks, blue sharks, and great white sharks.
These sharks are attracted to the area due to the abundance of food, including seals and other marine mammals. Basking sharks are known to feed on plankton, while blue and great white sharks feed on larger prey.
Sharks in Maine during the summer are known to exhibit a variety of behaviors, including feeding, mating, and migration. Some sharks may stay in the area for several months, while others may only visit briefly before moving on to other areas.
Winter
During the winter months, the waters of Maine become too cold for most sharks, and they migrate to warmer areas.
Some species of sharks, such as the sand tiger shark, may stay in the area year-round, but they are the exception rather than the rule.
Sharks that migrate to warmer waters during the winter months may travel hundreds or even thousands of miles to reach their destination.
Some sharks may return to the same territory year after year, while others may explore new areas.
Shark Sightings and Monitoring
Maine is home to a diverse range of shark species, and shark sightings have become increasingly common in recent years.
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry has been monitoring shark populations in the state in order to better understand their distribution and behavior.
Fisheries Monitoring and Assessment is responsible for collecting data on shark sightings, which are reported by fishermen, recreational boaters, and members of the public.
The data collected includes the species of shark sighted, the location and time of the sighting, and any additional information about the behavior of the shark.
The Maine Bureau of Parks & Lands also monitors shark populations in the state, particularly in areas where there is high human activity. In the June Issue of their newsletter, they reported that there had been an increase in shark sightings in areas such as Casco Bay and Saco Bay.
The data collected by these organizations is used to better understand the distribution and behavior of shark populations in Maine. This information can then be used to inform management decisions and ensure the long-term sustainability of these species.
Overall, the monitoring of shark populations in Maine is an important part of efforts to protect these species and ensure their continued survival.
By collecting data on shark sightings and behavior, researchers can gain a better understanding of these animals and work towards developing effective conservation strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of sharks are commonly found off the coast of Maine?
Several species of sharks are found in the waters off the coast of Maine, including the porbeagle, blue shark, mako shark, thresher shark, and white shark. The most commonly encountered species are the porbeagle and the blue shark.
Have there been any recent shark sightings in Maine?
Yes, there have been recent shark sightings in Maine. In fact, there have been several sightings of great white sharks in the area in recent years.
What is the likelihood of a shark attack in Maine?
The likelihood of a shark attack in Maine is considered to be very low. While sharks are present in the waters off the coast of Maine, attacks are extremely rare.
Are basking sharks commonly seen in Maine waters?
Basking sharks are occasionally seen in Maine waters, but they are not considered to be common. These sharks are filter feeders and are harmless to humans.
How many shark attacks have been recorded in Maine?
There have been only a few recorded shark attacks in Maine in the past several decades. The last fatal shark attack in Maine occurred in 1936.
Are there any known instances of bull sharks in Maine waters?
While bull sharks have been known to swim in coastal waters, there are no known instances of bull sharks in Maine waters. These sharks are typically found in warmer waters and are not commonly seen in the Gulf of Maine.
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