Sharks
What you need to know about sharks in Chesapeake Bay waters.
Are there sharks in the Chesapeake Bay?
Yes—and in surprising variety. Researchers have recorded at least 12 different shark species in Bay waters, though some are rare and others more common.
At least 12 species of sharks are known to visit parts of the Bay, and can be found here between summer and fall. Sandbar shark, bull shark, sand tiger shark, smooth dogfish, and spiny dogfish are the most frequently sighted sharks in the Chesapeake Bay.
Sharks are found throughout the Chesapeake Bay, especially the lower and middle regions, as well as in its tributaries like the Potomac River, with species like sandbar sharks, bull sharks, and sand tiger sharks. There have been sightings of bull sharks as far north as the Patuxent River in Maryland. The Bay is one of the most important nursery areas on the East Coast for young sandbar sharks.
More common sharks like the sandbar shark and the smooth dogfish are much like the people of the Chesapeake Bay region: they love to munch on blue crab (they also eat other Bay critters like rays and large fish).
To put shark attacks in perspective, about 20 people die each year from shark attacks worldwide. But more than 20,000 sharks are killed commercially each year! According to the Chesapeake Bay Program website: “As of 2015, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources had not recorded any shark attacks in the Chesapeake Bay or in any of Maryland’s waters. The International Shark Attack File records no unprovoked shark attacks in the state of Maryland and only five in the state of Virginia, none of which occurred in the Chesapeake.”
The appearance of top predators like sharks is a sign of a healthy, rebounding, vibrant ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Sharks in the Chesapeake Bay may seem startling and surprising, but they’re vital to the ecosystem, and generally harmless visitors. Here are some interesting facts.
There has never been a recorded shark bite in the Chesapeake Bay. Statistically, you’re more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by a shark here.
While not listed as endangered in the U.S., many shark species face global pressure due to illegal fishing for fins, skin, and oil.
Warmer temperatures and shifting salinity patterns tied to climate change may bring more frequent shark sightings in Southern Bay waters, including more bull sharks.
Studies show shark populations in the Southeast U.S. are recovering from past overfishing—good news for biodiversity. Their conservation status is unlisted in the United States, but they are on the IUCN Red List at a low level of concern. Worldwide, sharks are fished legally and illegally for liver oil, skins and to make shark fin soup.
Advice to Chesapeake Swimmers
Swimming in the Bay? Don’t fret about sharks! Here are some smart tips to stay safe—and respectful of its sometimes unexpected residents.
- Avoid dawn and dusk swimming—when sharks are most active.
- Steer clear of drop-offs, where larger marine life often travels.
- Stay away from areas where people are fishing, as bait can attract sharks.
- Skip shiny jewelry—they may resemble fish scales.
- Never swim alone.
- If you spot a shark, calmly move out of the water and report the sighting to the Maryland DNR or the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.
Related Programs
In support of re-establishing this keystone species, CBF has established facilities and programs in Maryland and Virginia devoted to restoration of the Eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica.
Do you enjoy working with others to help restore the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers and streams? Whether growing oysters, planting trees, or helping in our offices, there are plenty of ways you can contribute.
CBF's Volunteers as Chesapeake Stewards, or VoiCeS, program engages local volunteers and their communities and fosters a deeper understanding of the Bay watershed and the efforts to restore it.
Related Resources
How to Get Involved
From signing up for an event to shopping our CBF Store, there are so many ways you can get involved in the Save the Bay movement.
