Beachgoers can help shark research by reporting strandings along North Carolina coast

(WWAY) — With millions of visitors expected along North Carolina’s coastline this summer, the North Carolina Shark Conservancy (NCSC) is asking beachgoers to help support shark research by reporting stranded sharks.

Through the North Carolina Shark Stranding Network, residents and visitors can play a role in helping scientists better understand shark populations, marine ecosystems, and the factors impacting sharks along the coast.

The statewide program launched last year and allows researchers to track and study shark strandings across North Carolina. Each reported stranding provides scientists with valuable information about shark biology, migration patterns, population health, and environmental conditions.

When a stranded shark is reported, NCSC researchers and trained volunteers collect important details, including:

• Shark species
• Size and sex
• Location of the stranding
• Environmental conditions
• Possible causes of death

In some cases, researchers may collect biological samples or conduct necropsies to learn more about shark health, diet, reproduction, and environmental stressors. The information gathered helps build a larger database that can reveal trends in North Carolina’s shark populations.

“Many people don’t realize that reporting a stranded shark can directly contribute to scientific research,” said Taylor Evans, founder and CEO of the North Carolina Shark Conservancy. “As more people visit our beaches during the summer months, we have an incredible opportunity to expand our understanding of sharks through community participation.”

What to do if you find a stranded shark

Anyone who encounters a stranded shark along the North Carolina coast is asked to call or text the Shark Stranding Hotline at (252) 216-2810 or email strandings@ncsharks.org.

Officials recommend beachgoers:

• Note the shark’s location and condition
• Take photos only if it can be done safely
• Keep a safe distance from the animal

Operation Next Wave expands shark research

The North Carolina Shark Conservancy is also launching Operation Next Wave, a fundraising campaign designed to expand shark research and conservation efforts throughout the state.

Funds from the campaign will support shark necropsies, biological sampling, field research equipment, offshore expeditions, and efforts to acquire a dedicated research vessel.

Researchers say these resources will allow them to collect more data from stranded sharks, conduct additional field studies, and gain a better understanding of the species living in North Carolina waters.

“Every stranding has the potential to answer important scientific questions,” Evans said. “Operation Next Wave will help ensure we have the resources needed to learn as much as possible from these animals while expanding our research efforts beyond the shoreline.”

Learn more about Operation Next Wave and support shark conservation efforts.

The North Carolina Shark Conservancy is a nonprofit organization focused on connecting sharks, conservation scientists, and the public through research, education, and awareness. Based in the Outer Banks, the organization works to highlight the importance of sharks in North Carolina’s coastal ecosystems and promote science-based conservation efforts.