As warm ocean temperatures continue to rise, blacktip sharks are expanding their summer range, traveling farther north along the East Coast than before. Historically, beachgoers encountered these sharks less frequently in northern areas, but this is changing. Researchers from Florida Atlantic University have linked the shift to climate change, observing that the sharks are extending their range.
For over ten years, scientists have tracked the migration of blacktip sharks using aerial surveys and satellite tagging. Data shows that these sharks move north every spring, with many reaching Long Island, New York by the end of summer. As temperatures continue to rise, researchers predict these sharks will venture even further north and spend less time in South Florida during winter.
“They are just like us. They like our air-conditioned temperature,” explained Dr. Stephen Kajiura, a professor who has spent over 15 years studying these sharks.
Blacktip sharks are increasingly being seen farther north than usual, including off Long Island. Traditionally, people in these areas encountered this species less frequently. As the sharks swim close to shore, they often come near surfers and swimmers, increasing potential encounters with humans.
Besides tracking migration, research from Florida Atlantic University indicates that beach nourishment projects could also influence shark behavior. Published in the Journal of Coastal Research, the study reveals these sharks stay within roughly 50 meters of the shoreline. However, murky waters from beach nourishment may hinder their ability to hunt, thus altering their behavior and increasing accidental human encounters.
“What’s striking is how closely the distribution of blacktip sharks overlaps with areas impacted by turbidity events,” Kajiura highlighted.
Despite these changes, Kajiura reassures the public that shark encounters are rare. “The chances of you having a negative encounter with a shark are so minuscule,” he said, encouraging people to enjoy Florida’s beaches without fear.
Kelly McGreal contributed to this report as a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.