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Colossal Atlantic white shark spotted off Nantucket

Researchers tracked a massive white shark named Contender off Massachusetts.

July 23, 2025 at 05:33 PM

Colossal Atlantic White Shark Spotted Off Coast of Nantucket

Research teams track a massive shark nicknamed Contender off Nantucket's coast.

Colossal Atlantic white shark raises interest off Nantucket

A marine research nonprofit has identified a colossal white shark near Nantucket. This 13-foot, 9-inch male, named Contender, weighs over 16,000 pounds. Originally tagged off the Georgia coast, Contender has journeyed along the Atlantic, most recently pinging east of Massachusetts. The nonprofit, OCEARCH, plans to track him for five more years to learn about white shark migration. This sighting comes after an incident where paddleboarders encountered a large great white near New England's shores. This surge in shark sightings is partly linked to climate change warming local waters.

Key Takeaways

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Contender is a 13-foot, 9-inch male white shark recently tracked near Nantucket.

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OCEARCH will monitor his movements for five years to gather data on migration.

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Shark sightings in the region have increased due to warming waters.

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Despite their danger, fatal shark attacks in Massachusetts are extremely rare.

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College students recently encountered a great white while paddleboarding in New England waters.

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Wildlife researchers aim to use this data to better understand shark behavior.

"Contender is the ultimate ocean warrior, a true giant of the sea."

This highlights the impressive size and nature of the white shark.

"Shark encounters remind us to respect the ocean's true predators."

This reinforces the need for caution around marine wildlife.

The appearance of Contender reflects shifting ocean dynamics influenced by climate change. As waters warm, marine predators like great white sharks are increasingly spotted in new areas. For locals and tourists, this highlights both the wonder of marine wildlife and the necessity for caution. While fatal shark attacks remain rare, the rising number of sightings might shift public perceptions about these apex predators, leading to heightened awareness and potential fishing regulations.