Great white sharks have been spotted in Canadian waters, a fact that may surprise many who associate these predators with warmer climates. Recent years have seen an increase in shark sightings in the Maritimes, sparking both fear and excitement among the public. In a documentary titled “Jawsome: Canada’s Great White Sharks” by The Nature of Things, a team of shark enthusiasts from the East Coast embarked on a mission to locate, film, and study these elusive creatures.
Despite being considered a vulnerable species globally, great white sharks are actually classified as endangered in Canada. Studying and monitoring these sharks is challenging due to their solitary nature and long migratory patterns. The white sharks that visit the East Coast belong to a population that ranges from the Gulf of Mexico to Newfoundland and migrate to Canadian waters during the summer and early fall.
The abundance of food, particularly the thriving grey seal population in Atlantic Canada, attracts these apex predators. While young white sharks feed on fish and smaller sharks, adults target larger prey such as sea turtles, sea lions, and dolphins. In the Maritimes, they primarily hunt seals, playing a crucial role in ecosystem balance. These sharks can grow up to six meters in length and weigh as much as 1,800 kilograms.
Passionate ocean educator Alanna Canaran collaborates with citizen scientist Art Gaetan to study and film white sharks in Nova Scotia waters. Gaetan maintains a catalog of identified sharks based on unique markings, contributing to a better understanding of their behavior. Wildlife filmmaker Nick Hawkins also joins the team to capture more intimate footage of these sharks, showcasing their cautious and intelligent nature.
Despite challenges and inclement weather, the team persevered and successfully filmed a large female white shark underwater. The presence of such magnificent creatures signifies a healthy and diverse ecosystem in the Maritimes. The hope is that these great white sharks will continue to grace the waters of Eastern Canada, providing valuable insights and coexisting harmoniously with humans to ensure their conservation.
In summary, the increasing sightings of great white sharks in Canadian waters offer a unique opportunity to study and appreciate these majestic animals, shedding light on their importance in maintaining marine biodiversity.
