A rare shark spotted in Massachusetts has made headlines and captured imaginations—because it may have been right under everyone's noses the whole time.
This shark species was nearly hunted to extinction in the late 19th century, but is now beginning to recover in New England waters where it once thrived. In recent years, scientists believed the sharks feeding on seals during the summer months were great white sharks, but new evidence suggests the culprits are none other than the elusive dusky shark.
A swimming dusky shark (qldian/Getty Images)
Dusky sharks, also known as black or common whalers, are large sharks that were once highly sought after for their fins and meat. Following the expansion of commercial fishing in the Atlantic in the 1970s and 1980s, they were hunted to near extinction. By 2006, the dusky shark population was approximately 15-20% of its 1970 size.
Fortunately, many shark species, including dusky sharks, were granted federal protection in 2000. Additional protections from the National Marine Fisheries Service and NOAA have helped reduce overfishing and shark finning, although dusky shark populations have only recently begun to recover. Following several sightings of dusky sharks feeding on seals in the North Atlantic, marine biologists are beginning to regain hope for the species' survival.
See also: Why are cocaine and other drugs found in shark tests in the Bahamas?
«"Their populations are vulnerable and slow to recover due to their slow growth, late age of sexual maturity, and small litter sizes," Danielle Castillo, SeaWorld's curator of aquariums, explained to ABC News. "These sharks don't reach reproductive maturity until they're around 20 years old, and females only reproduce every few years.".
Dusky Sharks vs White Sharks match.
One of the main reasons dusky sharks remain elusive off the East Coast is that they have been mistaken for other shark species, particularly great whites. Despite their many similarities, dusky and great white sharks also have many significant differences. However, John Chisholm, a visiting research scientist at the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life at the New England Aquarium, understands why they are often confused.
A shark swims underwater. Julian Gunther/Getty Images.
Both species inhabit the same habitat and feed on seals and other marine mammals. Dusky sharks have a similar coloration to great whites and grow to nearly the same size. However, dusky sharks are much more slender and typically have a long dorsal caudal fin, meaning the upper lobe of the tail is longer than the lower lobe. In great whites, the upper and lower lobes of the tail are approximately the same size.
What to do if you see a shark in the ocean?
When a person unexpectedly sees a shark, it practically doesn't matter what species it is. The mere sight of a dorsal fin sticking out of the water is enough to make anyone run for the hills, but what should you do if you see a shark in the ocean?
The Florida Museum's best advice for beachgoers is to avoid entering the water at dawn, dusk, or at night, when sharks are most active. Don't attempt to swim or enter the water if a shark is spotted nearby, but if you do see one in the water, don't panic.
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Splashing, sudden movements, and shiny or brightly colored clothing can attract a shark's attention. If you're ever pursued by a shark, a punch to the snout can give you time to escape, although if attacked, you may need to scratch the eyes or gills.
Fortunately, dusky sharks aren't known for their aggressiveness, but since they can be found in shallow waters, it's important to be vigilant. With a little care and respect, everyone can enjoy the ocean without any problems!
This article was originally published on PetHelpful on June 5, 2026, in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful to your list of recommended resources by clicking here.