Overview
Rehoboth Beach in Delaware is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and water activities. While shark attacks are rare, it is essential to be aware of the shark species present in the area and take necessary precautions.
What Shark Species are Found in Delaware Waters?
The five most common shark species found in Delaware waters are:
- Sandbar Shark: Commonly mistaken for the bull shark, sandbar sharks are large but generally not aggressive towards humans. They are frequently found in Delaware Bay, particularly as a key nursing ground for juveniles.
- Sand Tiger Shark: Despite their fearsome appearance, sand tiger sharks are docile and not a danger to humans. They are found in the ocean, Delaware Bay, and Inland Bays.
- Smooth Dogfish Shark: These sharks are slender, small (typically 2-3 feet long), and harmless to humans. They are common around Delaware coasts, especially in Delaware Bay during warmer months.
- Spiny Dogfish Shark: These sharks are also small and not aggressive towards humans.
- Atlantic Mako Shark: One of the fastest-swimming sharks, Atlantic mako sharks are rare in Delaware waters but can be present.
When was the First-Ever Shark Attack in Rehoboth Beach?
In 2014, a 16-year-old boy was bitten by a shark while swimming in about 5.5 feet of water. The boy hit the shark with his other arm, and the shark released him. The incident was not life-threatening.
What Safety Precautions Should Beachgoers Take?
To stay safe from shark attacks in Rehoboth Beach, beachgoers should:
- Swim in groups: Sharks are less likely to attack a group of people.
- Avoid swimming in areas with bait fish: Sharks are attracted to schools of bait fish.
- Avoid swimming in areas with known shark activity: Check local reports and warnings before entering the water.
- Avoid wearing shiny jewelry: Sharks may be attracted to shiny objects.
- Avoid swimming at dusk or dawn: These are the times when sharks are most active.
What are the Statistics and Facts about Shark Attacks in Rehoboth Beach?
- Shark attacks are rare: There has been only one documented shark bite in the past five years in Delaware, and no recorded deaths due to shark attacks.
- Sharks are not aggressive: Most shark-human interactions occur when people are surf fishing, and sharks tend to avoid humans.