Shark sighting prompts warning near Maine beaches

Drone footage shows a large great white near busy Maine beaches, prompting a police warning for beachgoers.

Great White Shark Spotted Near Maine Beaches Triggers Police Warning

Drone footage captured by a local clam fisherman shows a large great white shark, roughly 10 to 12 feet, moving just beneath the surface near Crescent Beach State Park, Higgins Beach and Pine Point Beach, within a half-hour drive of Portland. Scarborough police say the sighting was reported on Monday and a public warning was issued on Tuesday to alert residents and visitors to exercise caution in the area.

Sharks are not common in Maine waters, but sightings have increased in recent years. Scientists say a growing seal population and changing prey patterns may attract more sharks to the area. The 2020 fatal attack on Julie Dimperio Holowach near Bailey Island is often cited in local safety messaging, underscoring that while rare, unprovoked attacks do happen. Officials stress that the incident should be understood as a risk signal tied to wildlife activity, not a certainty of danger.

The sighting blends awe with worry, showing how wildlife can cross into everyday coastal life. Publicly sharing drone footage helps transparency but can also fuel anxiety if not paired with clear guidance. Officials face the task of balancing respect for marine life with practical safety steps for bathers and visitors.

Experts point to shifting shark ranges linked to climate and prey dynamics. This moment could become part of a broader conversation about coastal safety, tourism, and how communities adapt to a changing ocean.

Highlights

Officials say beachgoers should heed advisories and stay informed as the season unfolds.