Shark Sightings Rise Along U.S. Coasts — Experts Say It May Signal Recovery, Not Greater Danger

Shark sightings along U.S. coastlines have increased this summer, a trend experts say may reflect recovering shark populations rather than a higher risk to swimmers.

Rockaway Beach in New York logged 16 shark sightings in July alone, and California has reported a growing number of juvenile great white sharks moving north as warming ocean temperatures shift migration routes and habitats.

Why Sightings Are Increasing

Shark scientist Neil Hammerschlag, speaking on NewsNation's "Morning in America," said more sharks near shore can be "a good sign." He noted that many shark species were overfished for decades and that rising local counts likely reflect population recovery and healthier marine ecosystems rather than a surge in attacks.

"We shouldn't fear being in the water because we're not on the menu," Hammerschlag said. "They generally don't want to have anything to do with people."

Human Impacts on Sharks

Separate research has detected human-derived pollutants in sharks: a study found some sharks in the Bahamas tested positive for substances such as cocaine and caffeine, underscoring how human activity affects marine life and food webs.

Coexisting With Sharks

Experts stress that increased sightings do not automatically mean swimming is unsafe, but they do urge smarter, precautionary behavior from beachgoers and coastal communities. Practical measures include following local advisories, avoiding swimming at dawn or dusk when sharks are often more active, steering clear of areas with baitfish or fishing activity, and using designated swimming zones with lifeguards.

This year's Discovery Shark Week, now in its 38th year, features 20 premieres. One highlight is Hammerschlag's special following his team's search for "Big Rose," an estimated 18-foot great white off the coast of Nova Scotia.