Here Are 7 Kinds Of Sharks You May Find Swimming Off The Jersey Shore

New Jersey has a long history with sharks. Over 100 years ago, a series of shark attacks occurred along the beaches, and four people died. This shocking event was later immortalized forever in the movie “Jaws.”

Of course, while you don’t want to get in a shark’s way, shark attacks are few and far between, and sharks are essential to the ocean’s ecosystem! They have way more to fear from us than the other way around.

Here are some sharks you’ll find off the shore in New Jersey.

D Ross Robertson/Wikimedia

This is the most abundant shark off the Jersey Shore. Don't worry, though, they're small and basically harmless to humans.

NMFS/PRIO Observer Program/Wikimedia

These sharks have an intimidating tail they use to herd and stun their prey. They are pretty small, though, and not considered dangerous to humans.

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Terry Goss/Wikimedia

This is the shark "Jaws" was centered around. They can get massive and are frequently seen at the Jersey Shore. In 2020, a 10-foot, 800-pound one named "Miss May" was tracked swimming nearby.

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Albert Kwok/Wikimedia

This shark is second only to the great white when it comes to attacks on humans. They're solitary, mostly nocturnal creatures.

Brian Gratwicke/Wikimedia

These sharks are common, bigger, and found close to shore, but despite all that, they aren't considered a threat to humans.

Mark Conlin, SWFSC Large Pelagics Program/Wikimedia

These are the fastest sharks in the world. Some can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour!

Mark Conlin, SWFSC Large Pelagics Program/Wikimedia

These sharks are commonly found around the globe and get between seven to 12 feet long. They're mostly active at night and tend to circle their prey.

So, the next time you hear about sharks in the water of the Jersey Shore, you’ll know a little bit more about the fascinating creatures that call the ocean home.