Ocean City, Maryland, is a popular coastal destination, and a common question among visitors concerns the presence of sharks in its waters. Sharks are indeed part of the natural marine ecosystem off Ocean City, as they are throughout the Atlantic Ocean. While these marine animals inhabit the offshore environment, direct encounters with swimmers are uncommon.
Common Shark Species Near Ocean City
Several shark species regularly inhabit the Mid-Atlantic waters off Ocean City, Maryland. Among the more frequently encountered are the sand tiger shark and the sandbar shark. Sand tiger sharks, known for their sharp, visible teeth even when their mouths are closed, can grow up to 10 feet long and primarily feed on bony fish, crustaceans, and other smaller sharks. These sharks are often found in sandy coastal waters and estuaries.
Sandbar sharks are also common, recognized by their tall dorsal fins and torpedo-shaped bodies, reaching lengths of up to seven feet. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming small bony fish, rays, crabs, and squid, and are particularly active at night. Smooth dogfish and spiny dogfish, smaller bottom-dwelling sharks, are also present, with smooth dogfish reaching about four feet and having flat teeth suitable for crushing crustaceans. Spiny dogfish, characterized by spines on their dorsal fins, are abundant in the North Atlantic. Larger species like hammerheads or mako sharks may be found further offshore.
Understanding Shark Behavior and Safety Measures
Beachgoers can take several precautions to minimize the risk of an encounter. Swimming in groups is advisable, as sharks are less likely to approach multiple individuals. Avoiding swimming during dawn and dusk, when many shark species are more active and visibility is lower, can also be beneficial.
It is also prudent to stay out of murky waters, as reduced visibility can make it difficult for sharks to identify what they are approaching. Refraining from wearing shiny jewelry is recommended, as its glint might resemble fish scales and attract a shark’s curiosity. Steer clear of areas where fishing is occurring or where schools of baitfish are visible, as these locations can attract sharks seeking prey. If a shark is sighted, remaining calm and slowly backing away towards shore while keeping the animal in sight is the recommended course of action.
Factors Attracting Sharks to Coastal Waters
Several natural and human-influenced factors can draw sharks closer to coastal waters. Warmer water temperatures, especially during summer months, can lead to increased shark activity as they seek comfortable temperatures and follow prey. Changes in ocean currents and the distribution of prey species, such as schools of baitfish, influence where sharks forage.
Coastal areas often serve as important breeding or nursery grounds for certain shark species, providing shallower, safer environments for their young away from larger predators. Human activities, including recreational fishing or the presence of bait in the water, can also inadvertently attract sharks closer to shore.