10/14/2024
A rare sight off the rugged coast of Haida Gwaii— a Great White Shark has been found washed up, sparking excitement and curiosity in the marine community. Though these ocean predators are iconic, it’s incredibly rare to encounter them in BC waters. In fact, there have been fewer than 15 confirmed Great White sightings in BC over the last several decades!
Great Whites are known for their long migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers between feeding and breeding grounds. They often swim from coastal areas to the deep waters of the Pacific, making their way from California to Hawaii, and even up to Alaska on occasion. Their extraordinary ability to cover vast distances is powered by their warm-blooded nature—something unique among sharks.
Did you know? Great Whites have an amazing sense of smell, capable of detecting a drop of blood in 100 liters of water! They also have specialized organs called ampullae of Lorenzini that allow them to sense the electric fields of prey. These apex predators can reach lengths of over 6 meters and live as long as 70 years!
We’re so fortunate to have such a rich and diverse marine ecosystem here in BC, from Haida Gwaii to Vancouver Island. Whether you’re spearfishing or freediving, it’s a privilege to explore these waters and encounter the incredible species that call it home.
