Scot the Shark is Back in North Carolina Waters!
DUCK, N.C. – July 14, 2024
Have you ever wondered where the great white sharks roam? Well, if you’re in the mood for a little marine excitement, you’re in luck! Recently, a humongous great white shark named Scot has been spotted diving into the waters off North Carolina’s beautiful Outer Banks. This isn’t just a casual swim — Scot is a notable shark tracked by OCEARCH, the nonprofit group that studies these majestic sea creatures.
On Friday night, Scot, who measures an impressive 12.3 feet long and weighs a whopping 1,644 pounds, last pinged at 10:56 p.m. That’s right, 10:56 p.m.! He started making his presence known shortly after 10:30 a.m. that same day, popping up for air a few times throughout the day and making a grand exit with his final ping late at night. Prior to this, Scot hadn’t been seen in North Carolina since November 25, 2023, when he decided to hang out southeast of Southport.
But you might be curious — where has Scot been hanging out before making his recent appearance? Well, his last known location was about as south as you can get, around noon on April 13, off the coast of St. Augustine, Florida. It seems like Scot enjoys hopping between states as he travels up and down the east coast of North America. He’s been quite the adventurer since being tagged back on September 8, 2021, at Ironbound Island in Nova Scotia.
Meet Scot: The Travel-Loving Shark
Scot isn’t just any shark; he has been on the radar of researchers for nearly three years. His travels are fascinating, consisting of multiple trips along the eastern seaboard and even a few sneak peeks into the Gulf of Mexico between Florida and Cuba in 2022 and 2023. Picture him as the ultimate road trip buddy, hopping from one beach to another!
OCEARCH proudly notes that Scot is the first great white shark they sampled during their 2021 Expedition Nova Scotia. In fact, he holds the distinction of being the 74th shark tagged by their team in the northwest Atlantic Ocean. Fun fact: Scot was named in honor of the wonderful people from Nova Scotia, thanks to the team’s partners at SeaWorld.
These tracking efforts are crucial for understanding the behaviors and migration patterns of great white sharks like Scot. As these incredible creatures face numerous threats, including climate change and overfishing, every bit of data helps in the ongoing efforts to protect them and their habitats.
What Does This Mean for Locals?
So, what does Scot’s return mean for the locals? Well, it’s a reminder of the vibrant marine life just off the shores of Duck and the Outer Banks. For beachgoers, it could be a thrilling experience knowing that such a powerful predator is nearby (albeit maintaining a safe distance!).
This notable sighting can also serve to increase awareness about sharks and the vital role they play in the ocean’s ecosystem. It’s important to respect these magnificent animals and work towards their conservation. After all, a healthy marine environment benefits everyone, from local fishermen to beach enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
So, if you find yourself on the shores of the Outer Banks this summer, take a moment to appreciate the wonders of the ocean and the grand presence of Scot the shark, making waves and captivating hearts along the way. Remember, it’s a big ocean out there, and Scot is just one of the many amazing creatures navigating the waters!
Keep your eyes peeled, who knows what Scot will do next!
