Several vulnerable, endangered, and fragile marine species, including marbled murrelet, brown pelican, southern sea otter, southern steelhead, and blue, gray, and humpback whales, can be found in the Santa Barbara Channel. A large number of marine species can be found in the area’s acres of huge kelp forests and seagrass meadows. A Youtube channel under the name “theMalibuartist” shoots incredible footage of this beautiful area. One of their videos has amassed nearly three million views and shows stunning images of humpback whales. While filming, the cameraman noticed something peculiar in the water – several great white sharks headed in the same direction. It’s not normal for great whites to be so close to the shore. There’s one thing that was causing these huge beasts to tread in unfamiliar waters: a dead whale carcass. The first shot the cameraman spots looks to be about 16 feet long! They can grow up to 15 feet in length on average, however, records exist of specimens that were 20 feet long and 5,000 pounds in weight. Sharks regularly consume whale carcasses for food. Even though the species is notorious for being an apex predator, dead whales give them a chance to scrounge an easy meal that is high in energy. The great whites aren’t the only ones getting in on the action either. Hundreds of leopard sharks can be spotted close to the shore as well!
Small But Mighty
Not nearly as ferocious or as large as white sharks, leopard sharks are one of the most common types along the coast of California. It is a stunning, elongated fish with silvery-bronze skin that is patterned with dark ovals that go neatly along its back. The leopard shark typically stays close to the bottom and inhabits the shallow bays and estuaries where it also periodically patrols the kelp forest. Its mouth opens downward and is located on the flat bottom of its head. Young leopard sharks scoop up crabs, clam siphons, and fish eggs. The great whites won’t have to worry about competing with these bottom-feeders for the whale carcass meat. On the video of the jaw-dropping footage, there are a plethora of compliments towards the filmmaker. User Morgan Biron states, “Besides the incredible views you get of the most misunderstood animals. The way you catch the sun reflecting on and in the water is so beautiful, I love everything about your work so beautiful and relaxing!” Believe it or not, it’s true! Watching these sharks is nothing short of relaxing! Who would’ve thought?
Is it Normal for Sharks to Be Found Near California Coast?
Yes, there are great white sharks all over California’s coastal waters. Some places however, seem to have higher shark populations than others. The areas of Bird Rock are one of the most populated areas for sharks. The white shark is the only species in California that presents a danger to humans.
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