Great white sharks are present in Virginia Beach waters, though direct encounters with humans are rare. These large predators are known to migrate along the Atlantic coast, and Virginia Beach falls within their expansive migratory routes. While they are part of the marine ecosystem here, their presence is typically transient as they move between their feeding and breeding grounds.
Understanding Great White Presence in Virginia Waters
Great white sharks undertake extensive seasonal migrations along the East Coast of the United States. During the warmer months, they often inhabit northern waters, such as those off New England and Atlantic Canada, where abundant prey like seals are available. As water temperatures begin to drop in the fall and winter, these sharks migrate southward towards warmer regions, including the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, and even into the Gulf of Mexico. Virginia’s coastal waters serve as a part of this migratory highway, particularly during these transitional periods.
Research initiatives, including shark tagging programs by organizations like OCEARCH, have provided significant insight into these movements. Tagged sharks, such as Breton, a 13-foot male, and Miss May, a 10-foot female, have been tracked pinging off the Virginia Beach coast. Another notable shark, Miss Costa, a 12-foot, 5-inch sub-adult, was also tracked near Virginia Beach and the Eastern Shore.
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) also conducts long-term shark surveys, which, while primarily catching smaller species, have occasionally documented great white sharks. In 2018, VIMS researchers observed two great white sharks, one 8.5 feet and another between 12 to 13 feet, off the Virginia Beach coast over two consecutive days. These sightings underscore their presence, often influenced by factors such as cooler water temperatures which can attract baitfish and, subsequently, their predators. While great whites are present, sandbar sharks are far more common in Virginia Beach waters.
Sharing the Ocean: Best Practices for Swimmers
Given the natural presence of various marine life, including sharks, in coastal environments, adopting general ocean awareness practices is beneficial for all beachgoers. Swimming during daylight hours is advisable, as many marine predators are more active at dawn and dusk. Avoiding areas where baitfish are schooling or where birds are actively diving can also reduce the likelihood of encountering feeding marine animals.
Wearing shiny jewelry in the water is generally discouraged, as it can reflect light and resemble fish scales, potentially attracting curious marine life. It is also prudent to swim in groups and stay closer to shore, particularly in supervised areas, to enhance safety and aid in visibility. Being mindful of your surroundings and refraining from erratic splashing that might mimic an animal in distress are also helpful precautions.
Historical data indicates only five shark bites in Virginia Beach waters since 1852, with a single fatality. Sharks do not intentionally hunt humans, and bites are typically cases of mistaken identity.