News Summary
A video of a hammerhead shark hunting a stingray off the coast of Southern Shores has sparked interest in local marine life. Captured by resident Jonny Mausteller, the footage showcases the shark’s predatory behavior. Hammerhead sharks, notably the scalloped species, are increasingly being observed during the warmer months in the Outer Banks, a region known for its rich biodiversity and marine life. The predation event emphasizes the ecological balance and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these marine environments.
Southern Shores, NC – A remarkable incident captured off the coast of Southern Shores on the Outer Banks has drawn attention to the local marine life. On the morning of July 21, 2025, a viewer recorded a video showcasing a hammerhead shark preying on a stingray. The footage, which has since circulated, depicts the shark approaching the stingray and skillfully grabbing it by its barb before dragging it away into deeper waters.
The video was recorded by local resident Jonny Mausteller, who was on the shoreline when the event unfolded. His timely capture of the moment highlights the dynamic nature of marine biodiversity in the area, particularly the presence of predatory species such as the hammerhead shark.
According to information from North Carolina Sea Grant, hammerhead sharks are indeed found in the Outer Banks, although their population numbers have notably decreased in recent years. Among the species of hammerhead sharks, the scalloped hammerhead is recognized as the most prevalent large species in North Carolina waters.
Species Behavior and Habitat
The North Carolina Aquarium, located on Roanoke Island, confirmed that hammerhead sharks are more commonly spotted during the warmer months of the year. These sharks are known for their distinctive hammer-shaped heads and are predominantly found in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters.
Michael Remige, a spokesperson from the aquarium, stated that hammerheads primarily prey on stingrays, which are abundant in the coastal waters of the Outer Banks. This predation behavior is part of the natural ecological balance, as hammerhead sharks contribute to the health of marine ecosystems by controlling stingray populations.
Marine Life in the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks is known for its diverse marine life, attracting both locals and tourists interested in experiencing the area’s natural beauty. While sightings of hammerhead sharks are becoming less frequent, lucky observers may still catch a glimpse of these magnificent predators during the summer months.
Coastal communities in North Carolina often witness instances of interesting marine behavior, especially from large species like the hammerhead shark. The documented predation event not only offers a glimpse into the life of hammerheads but also serves as a reminder of the intricate relationships between different species within the marine ecosystem.
As the story continues to develop, updates on hammerhead sightings and related marine life interactions are anticipated from both the North Carolina Aquarium and marine biology experts. The importance of studying these species helps improve understanding of ocean health and emphasizes the need for conservation efforts to protect marine ecosystems.
Conclusion
In summary, the encounter witnessed by Jonny Mausteller and captured on video illustrates the natural behavior of hammerhead sharks as they prey on stingrays, reaffirming the critical role these species play within the marine environment of the Outer Banks. As conversations about marine life persist, the community remains engaged and eager to learn more about the thriving underwater ecosystem that surrounds them.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Wavy: Video Captures Hammerhead Shark Attack on Stingray
- Live Science: Hammerhead Shark Falls from Sky in South Carolina
- World Atlas: 5 Most Shark Infested Beaches in South Carolina
- AL.com: Sharks and People Can Peacefully Coexist
- On The Water: Hammerhead Shark Seen Feeding in Nantucket Surf
- Wikipedia: Hammerhead Shark
- Google Search: Hammerhead Shark Marine Life
- Google Scholar: Hammerhead Shark Behavior
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hammerhead Shark
- Google News: Hammerhead Shark Outer Banks
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
