Scarborough, Maine – Nearly a dozen great white sharks were observed off Pine Point Beach over a 48-hour period this week, prompting officials to issue warnings to beachgoers due to the unprecedented nature of the sightings. At least seven sharks, ranging from 8 to 12 feet in length and believed to be juveniles, were seen near a sandbar Tuesday and Wednesday.
Marine Resource Officer Daryen Granata, who has worked the area south of Portland for over 30 years, described the volume as "larger than I've seen." Typically, one or two great white sharks are observed in the area annually. "Usually we'll see one or two here and there," Granata stated. "This is a large volume, larger than I've seen, and I've worked this area for 30-plus years."
The sharks were observed swimming and feeding in nearshore waters. The Scarborough Fire Department noted in a statement that there have been no reported injuries or aggressive interactions with people. The increased shark activity is thought to be linked to seasonal prey availability, such as schools of baitfish and seals.
Officials advise beachgoers to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid swimming if seals or large schools of fish are present, stay close to shore, avoid swimming alone, and exit the water immediately if a shark is sighted.
Boaters and beachgoers captured footage of the sharks, with some sightings occurring just feet from individuals in the water. Despite the notable presence of sharks, some beach visitors expressed a level of calm. "I don't want to get eaten. But no problem, sharks are sharks," swimmer Mark Coleman said. "They'll stay out there and I'll stay here. No worries."