Shark Alarm! 4-Meter Predator Spotted at Popular Swimming Beaches

A mighty giant of the seas passes by – and with it the fascination for the unknown.

The great white shark "Contender" is currently causing a stir on the east coast of the USA. With a length of about 4.2 meters and a weight of approximately 750 kilograms, it is considered by the organization OCEARCH to be the largest of its kind ever recorded in the Atlantic. Contender was tagged in January 2025 near the border between Florida and Georgia. Its current position: off the coast of North Carolina, near the popular vacation area of Pamlico Sound.

Stopover on Migration North

As researchers explain, Contender is on its annual spring migration towards Canada. Current stays near the coast suggest stopovers for feeding. However, the shark usually remains far from swimming zones – direct encounters with humans are extremely rare.

Modern Technology Provides Real-Time Data

Equipped with a so-called SPOT satellite tag, Contender transmits movement data in real-time. As soon as its dorsal fin breaks the water surface, a signal is sent. This technology makes it possible to analyze migrations in detail over the years.

Significance for Research and Conservation

Observations like those of Contender provide valuable insights into the behavior of great white sharks. At the same time, they serve as an indicator of the state of marine ecosystems. The presence of such a large specimen in coastal waters suggests healthy populations of its prey.

No Danger to Swimmers

According to experts, there is no cause for concern: Contender typically moves far outside swimming zones. Nevertheless, authorities advise paying attention to warnings at beaches and reporting sightings to lifeguards.

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