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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedSeptember 1, 2026Miami-Dade

Researchers track shark populations off Long Island coast

Marine researchers are tagging and tracking shark species off the coast of the Hamptons to study migration patterns and the presence of a great white shark nursery. The study aims to gather data on how warming ocean temperatures are influencing the movement of tropical shark species into northern waters.

marine biologyshark conservationclimate changeLong Islandscientific research
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Why It Matters

The research provides data on shark behavior and population health, which informs local safety measures and conservation efforts for s in coastal waters.

Key Facts

  • Researchers are tagging sharks off the Hamptons to study migration and nursery habits.
  • Data shows sharks tagged off Long Island travel as far as Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
  • Warming waters are attracting more tropical shark species, such as spinner, black tip, and bull sharks, to Long Island during summer months.
  • Great white sharks do not reach reproductive maturity until their 20s.
  • Baby great white sharks weigh up to 36 kilograms (80 pounds) at birth.
  • The International Shark Attack File has no record of a fatal shark attack on Long Island.
  • Local officials have implemented shark-spotting drones in response to recent shark bites.
  • The increase in reported shark sightings is attributed by researchers to improved technology like drones and cellphones rather than a surge in shark populations.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFlorida Museum of Natural History“Home to the International Shark Attack File.”organizationSouth Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center“Coordinating the shark research project.”personGreg Metzger“Shark researcher and teacher at Southampton High School.”personFrank Quevedo“Executive director at the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center.”personBradley Peterson“Marine scientist at Stony Brook University.”organizationStony Brook University“Academic institution involved in the research.”