A Shark Species Nearly Wiped Out 50 Years Ago Was Just Spotted Off the New England Coast
A rare shark spotted in Massachusetts is making headlines and blowing minds-because it may have been under everyone's noses all along.
This shark species was nearly hunted to extinction in the late 19th century, but it's beginning to make a comeback in New England waters, where it used to be abundant. In recent years, scientists believed the sharks feeding off seals in the summer months were great white sharks, but new findings suggest the culprits are none other than the elusive dusky shark.
Dusky sharks, also known as black whalers or common whalers, are large-bodied sharks that were once highly sought after for their fins and meat. Once commercial fishing increased in the Atlantic in the 1970s and 1980s, they were nearly hunted to extinction. By 2006, dusky shark populations were about 15-20% of what they were in 1970.
Fortunately, many shark species-including dusky sharks-became federally protected in 2000. Additional protections from the National Marine Fisheries Service and NOAA helped reduce overhunting and shark finning, though dusky shark populations have only recently begun to recover. After several sightings of dusky sharks feeding on seals in the North Atlantic, marine biologists are beginning to feel hopeful for the species again.
Related: Why Sharks in the Bahamas Are Testing Positive For Cocaine and Other Drugs
"Their populations are vulnerable and slow to recover because of their slow growth rate, late age of maturation, and small litter sizes," Danielle Castillo, zoological curator of aquariums for SeaWorld, explained to ABC News. "These sharks do not reach reproductive maturity until they are around 20 years old and females only reproduce every few years."
Dusky Sharks v. White Sharks
One of the main reasons dusky sharks have remained elusive on the East Coast is because they were being mistaken for other shark species-especially white sharks. Despite sharing many similarities, dusky sharks and white sharks also have many distinct differences. Still, John Chisholm, adjunct scientist for the New England Aquarium's Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, understands why the two get mixed up.
Both species live in the same habitat and feed on seals and other marine mammals. Dusky sharks have similar coloring to white sharks, and they grow to be almost as large. At the same time, dusky sharks are much leaner and tend to have long upper caudal tails, which means the top lobe of the tail is longer than the lower lobe. In white sharks, the top and bottom lobes of the tail are about the same size.
What To Do If You See a Shark in the Ocean
When a person unexpectedly sees a shark, it hardly matters which species it is. Simply seeing the dorsal fin sticking out of the water is enough to make anyone rush out of the water, but what should you do if you see a shark in the ocean?
The best advice the Florida Museum has for beachgoers is to not enter the water during dawn, dusk, or nighttime, when sharks are most active. Don't attempt to swim or enter the water if a shark sighting has been reported nearby, but if you do see a shark in the water-don't panic.
SIGN UP to get "pawsitivity" delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends
Splashing, erratic movements, and shiny or brightly colored clothing can attract a shark's attention. If you are ever pursued by a shark, a punch to the snout can give you time to get out of the water, though clawing at the eyes or gills may be necessary in the event of an attack.
Fortunately, dusky sharks aren't known as particularly aggressive sharks, but because they can be present in shallow water, it's important to keep an eye out for them. With a little thoughtfulness and respect, everyone can enjoy the ocean with no troubles whatsoever!
Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published June 5, 2026 at 6:45 PM.