Greg Skomal discusses the sharks that are present in New England waters in the summer. As the ocean waters of New England warm in May and June, many species of fish migrate north. Among them are more than a dozen shark species. Whether they are oceanic sharks such as the blue, mako or basking sharks; coastal species such as sandbar sharks, spiny and smooth dogfish; or tropical species such as tiger and hammerhead sharks, they all can be found in New England trying to capitalize on the productive northeast waters that are rich in food and reproductive opportunities. The porbeagle shark is the only species found year-round in Massachusetts waters because of its preference for colder waters. Massachusetts represents the northernmost range for several shark species. It is an important area for monitoring the health and distribution of shark populations.
