California's coastal waters are about to get a whole lot more exciting, or terrifying, depending on your perspective. The state is bracing for an influx of juvenile great white sharks, a phenomenon that has become increasingly common in recent years. This summer, however, promises to be particularly 'sharky', with experts attributing the surge to the formation of El Niño in the Pacific.
The Great White Migration
Dr. Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University Long Beach, has been studying these marine predators for two decades. He and his team have noticed a significant increase in white shark sightings, with baby sharks appearing as early as February, a full two months ahead of schedule.
This early arrival is linked to El Niño, a climate phenomenon that can cause extreme weather events worldwide. For marine life, it means a mass migration as cold-water species seek cooler waters further north or deeper depths.
"Every El Niño is unique," says Lowe. "In 2015, another El Niño year, we saw twice as many white sharks along the California coast. It was a sharky time indeed."
Juvenile Great Whites: Size and Behavior
While adult great whites are massive, reaching lengths of 10 to 20 feet, most of the sharks off California's coast are juveniles. Born as live young at around 5 feet, these younger sharks prefer shallower waters closer to shore, where they can find ample food. Their menu includes stingrays, fish, and squid.
The El Niño Buffet
During El Niño years, the usual populations of squid, anchovies, and sardines are replaced by subtropical species, the very food source of great whites. In 2015, a big influx of smooth hammerhead sharks followed schools of mahi mahi up from Baja California, creating a veritable shark feast just off the coast of southern California.
"I expect hammerheads any day now," Lowe predicts, adding that bull sharks and tiger sharks might also join the fray.
Protecting Beachgoers and Sharks
Local officials are taking measures to ensure the safety of both beachgoers and sharks. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has passed emergency regulations to prohibit certain fishing gear at beaches and piers, aiming to limit accidental hooking of white sharks.
"Conservation measures have been successful, and we're seeing population increases," says John Ugoretz, a fisheries and ecosystems program manager. "But we're concerned about accidental catches and the potential for a hooked shark to harm a swimmer."
Shark Bites: Rare but Not Unheard Of
Despite the increased presence of sharks, shark bites remain rare in California, with fewer than 250 incidents across all species since 1950, and only 17 of those were fatal. Over 85% of these incidents involved white sharks.
"We assumed more sharks and more people would mean more bites," Lowe explains. "But in California, we're seeing the opposite. These sharks are around so many people, and they recognize we're not prey."
Ugoretz adds, "A sighting of a white shark is a rare experience, like seeing a mountain lion or a bear on a hike. It's a reminder that we're in their territory."
The Intelligence of White Sharks
Lowe and his team's research has shown that white sharks are intelligent apex predators. Their daily interactions with these sharks, captured via drone data, have convinced Lowe of their intelligence.
"Twenty years ago, we didn't know if it was safe to be in the water with them," Lowe reflects. "Now, based on our research, I swim with them daily without fear. They've learned we're not food."
While incidents do occur, they are extremely uncommon given the number of sharks and people in the water.
"As I speak, a white shark is swimming by a surfer or swimmer who doesn't know it's there," Lowe says. "But these sharks have learned to avoid us."
Conclusion
California's upcoming shark-filled summer is a reminder of the dynamic nature of our oceans and the importance of conservation efforts. While the presence of these majestic predators may be unnerving to some, it's a testament to the success of conservation measures and the resilience of these intelligent creatures. As we share the ocean with these fascinating creatures, we must remember to respect their space and appreciate the unique privilege of witnessing their presence.
