A recent surge in great white shark sightings along the California coastline has captured public attention, sparked by videos circulating across social media.
In recent weeks, people have captured striking footage of the apex predators using drones, smartphones, and even smart glasses. In Half Moon Bay, a kayak fisherman filmed a great white swimming just inches from his boat.
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Latest Sighting
The most recent sighting occurred on October 28 off the coast of Pismo Beach in Central California, where a massive shark glided remarkably close to a group of surfers.
Estimated to measure between 12 and 15 feet in length, the shark did not act aggressively, though it splashed one surfer with its tail fin as it turned back toward open water. No injuries were reported.
With recurring sightings spanning the summer and autumn months, ocean enthusiasts are keeping a close watch on the water as sharks continue to patrol shallow coastal corridors.
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A Common Presence
According to Dr. Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach, white sharks are far more common off the California coast than the public realizes.
Over three decades ago, white shark populations plummeted due to targeted hunting for their jaws, teeth, and fins, alongside significant incidental losses from commercial fishing.
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Protection and Population Recovery
That trend reversed in 1994 when the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) instituted a comprehensive ban on hunting the species, allowing local populations to steadily rebuild.
While their growing numbers naturally increase the likelihood of human-shark proximity, experts stress that the actual danger to humans remains low. Out of nearly 250 shark interactions documented by the DFW since 1950, fewer than 20 have resulted in fatalities.
Reporting by KTLA
