News Summary
Researchers have identified a remarkable great white shark named Contender off the coast of Cape Hatteras. Measuring nearly 14 feet and weighing over 1,600 pounds, Contender is the largest adult male of its kind recorded in the region. Estimated to be around 32 years old, he was tagged by OCEARCH in January 2025 and is currently being tracked using satellite technology. This tracking has revealed significant insights into his migratory patterns along the U.S. eastern seaboard, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts and public awareness regarding great white sharks.
Cape Hatteras, North Carolina – A remarkable discovery has emerged from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean as researchers have identified a great white shark named Contender, recognized as the largest adult male of its kind recorded in this region. Measuring nearly 14 feet in length and weighing over 1,600 pounds, Contender’s size is an exceptional marker of his species.
Estimated to be around 32 years old, Contender was tagged by the nonprofit research organization OCEARCH in January 2025, approximately 45 miles off the coast of Florida-Georgia. Since the tagging process, scientists have been actively tracking this majestic shark using satellite technology, enabling real-time data access for the next five years.
The satellite tracking has provided insights into Contender’s movements and migration patterns, reflecting the behavioral characteristics typical of great white sharks, especially during seasonal changes. Recently, Contender was tracked 22 miles off Cape Hatteras, showcasing his northbound migration along the U.S. eastern seaboard from Florida to North Carolina.
During this time of year, great white sharks are known to migrate northwards to seek cooler waters and plentiful food sources. With the Outer Banks identified as a crucial rest stop for migrating sharks, the area appears to be a favorable location for Contender due to its rich abundance of prey.
Tracking Technology and Data Availability
OCEARCH has implemented advanced tagging technologies that transmit location data whenever the shark’s dorsal fin breaks the surface of the water, registering a “ping.” This innovative tracking method is helping scientists gain insights into the life cycles and migratory habits of great white sharks in the Northwest Atlantic.
Since being tagged, Contender has relayed pings showing various locations along the coast, particularly near North and South Carolina. The first pings were recorded in March, and tracking data continues to update the movements of this significant specimen.
Migratory Patterns and Conservation Efforts
The seasonal behavior displayed by Contender highlights the natural migratory patterns of great white sharks. These sharks typically seek warmer waters during the winter and transition to cooler, food-rich environments during the spring and summer months. By understanding these patterns, researchers can better assess and enhance conservation efforts for this iconic species.
The data collected from the tracking of Contender not only informs conservation strategies but also bolsters public awareness and understanding of great white sharks. OCEARCH has made this tracking information available to the general public through the OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker app, promoting engagement and interest in marine research and shark conservation.
Conclusion
Contender’s journey offers a valuable opportunity for scientists to study great white sharks and their ecological roles. With ongoing monitoring of his movements along the Atlantic coast, researchers hope to unlock further insights that contribute to the understanding and protection of these incredible marine beings.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Rare Orca Sighting Near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina
Rare Orca Sighting Excites Marine Enthusiasts in Kitty Hawk
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Additional Resources
- Fox Weather
- Wikipedia: Great White Shark
- 13 News Now
- Google Search: Great White Shark
- USA Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Great White Shark
- CBS News
- Google News: Great White Shark Tracking
- WRAL
- Google Scholar: Great White Shark Migration
- CBS 17
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.
