Record-Breaking Great White Shark Approaches Florida Coast as Spring Break Begins

As college students flock to the sandy beaches of Florida, researchers are monitoring a remarkable apex predator making its way south for the busy holiday season.

Known as Contender, this 1,653-pound male great white shark measures 13 feet, 9 inches and is currently being tracked off the coast of Florida. As of Thursday morning, Contender pinged just a few miles from Sebastian and continues his journey southward.

Dr. Harley Newton, chief scientist and veterinarian at OCEARCH, shared insights about the significance of this shark. He stated that Contender plays a crucial role in ongoing research efforts focused on understanding the reproductive cycle and breeding timing of adult white sharks during their overwintering period.

Researchers believe that Contender, often referred to as the ultimate ocean warrior, is the largest shark tracked by OCEARCH so far. He was tagged while passing the Florida-Georgia border in January, and the organization’s tracking will include obtaining crucial biological samples for further analysis.

OCEARCH indicated that the SPOT tag affixed to Contender would provide invaluable real-time data for the next five years. This information will help scientists track his movements and better understand his migration patterns.

Although Contender is an impressive 14 feet long, great white sharks can reach lengths of 21 feet and weigh up to 4,500 pounds, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Tracking Additional Sharks Along the Coast

Researchers are also keeping an eye on another great white shark making its way down the coastline. Named Dold, this 11-foot, 761-pound shark was last observed heading south through Hobe Sound, which is roughly 100 miles ahead of Contender.

The name Dold honors Dr. Christopher Dold of SeaWorld, a key figure in ocean conservation. OCEARCH acknowledged Dr. Dold’s significant contributions to connecting experts in shark research through their collaborative science model.

Expecting Both Sharks to Pass Major Coastal Cities

If they continue on their current trajectories, Contender and Dold are likely to pass Fort Lauderdale and Miami before reaching the southernmost point of Florida. However, their exact paths remain unpredictable.

Taylor Chapple, assistant professor and founder of the Big Fish Lab at Oregon State University, highlighted the importance of the data obtained from the tags. He explained that such information provides insight into the movement and behavior of these magnificent creatures. This understanding is vital for assessing their role in ocean ecosystems, similar to how tracking initiatives help study lions on the Serengeti and manage wildebeest populations. Moreover, pinpointing critical locations like feeding areas and nurseries for juvenile sharks greatly enhances conservation efforts.

Innovative Tagging Methods Provide Valuable Insights

Researchers generally tag great white sharks using a dart to attach the trackers while the animals swim freely around the boat. These tags are not harmful to the sharks but serve as essential tools in the quest for knowledge about their behavior, migrations, and habitats.

Forrest Galante, a host on Discovery Channel’s Shark Week and a wildlife biologist, explained that the tags gather depth, temperature, and acceleration data. This information can shed light on hunting behaviors, diving patterns, and energy expenditure, further enriching the understanding of great white sharks.

Sharks and Safety at Spring Break

As spring break approaches and these colossal marine animals close in on popular destinations, experts reassure the public that shark attacks are currently tracking lower than average globally. Last year, there were only 47 reports of unprovoked shark bites and seven confirmed fatalities across the world, according to data from the Florida Museum of Natural History. Out of 28 reported bites in the U.S. in 2024, only one was fatal.

Chapple emphasized that if anyone has ever been in the ocean, a shark has likely encountered them without their knowledge. He noted that sharks do not view humans as prey, asserting that, if they desired to eat people, there would be far fewer surfers in the water.

As thousands of college students prepare to hit the beach for their spring break celebrations, both Contender and Dold do not seem poised to disrupt their festivities, having stayed around 40 miles from the nearest beaches.

Safety Tips for Swimmers

To enhance safety while enjoying the ocean, experts recommend that swimmers steer clear of shiny jewelry, avoid swimming during dawn or dusk, and refrain from entering waters near fishing activities.

Chapple advised that shark encounters are exceptionally rare, stating that individuals face a greater risk from falling coconuts or taking selfies than from shark attacks during their tropical vacations.

Understanding Sharks and Ocean Safety

As spring break kicks off in Florida, maintaining awareness of ocean safety can help ensure a memorable and safe experience for all beachgoers. While the presence of great white sharks may seem intimidating, understanding their behaviors and the infrequency of attacks can enhance appreciation for these majestic creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit.