Up close and scary: Juvenile great white shark emerges off coast after winter migration
A juvenile great white shark named 'Brass Bed' has been spotted off the coast of Florida after migrating from Nova Scotia.
Researchers have detected a 9-foot, 433-pound female great white shark named 'Brass Bed' off the coast of Florida, following her winter migration from Canadian waters. The shark was originally tagged in October 2025 near Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, and her signals indicate she is journeying along a well-documented migration route that great white sharks typically follow during this time of year. John Tyminski, a senior data scientist at OCEARCH, confirmed that her movements are consistent with the seasonal patterns observed in these sharks.
Brass Bed's migration reflects a broader behavior among great whites, who travel south from North Atlantic waters to find warmer winter habitats. Tyminski noted that such migrations are common for this species as they seek out suitable conditions for feeding and survival. The movement underscores the importance of ongoing research and monitoring to understand great white shark behavior, particularly in relation to their seasonal patterns and ecologies.
As sightings and reports of great white sharks have increased along the U.S. East Coast, researchers are emphasizing the need for public awareness regarding these apex predators. Their return to Florida's coastal waters not only highlights the thriving shark population but also raises questions about marine ecosystem health and conservation. Understanding these migratory patterns is crucial for effective wildlife management and conserving shark populations in the face of environmental challenges.