Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) says several shark species native to Long Island Sound are showing modest population growth. The assessment comes from data collected through DEEP’s new coastal shark reporting app, which allows anglers, boaters and charter captains to log sightings.
App‑based reporting shows upward trend
DEEP fisheries biologist David Molnar explained that the app has provided a clearer picture of shark activity in the Sound. “With the reporting app, where anglers, boaters, charter boat captains can report, we believe the populations of some species are increasing slowly,” Molnar said.
The species most frequently reported are brown sharks, dusky sharks and sand tiger sharks. Molnar attributes the gradual rise to two main factors: state fisheries management practices that protect sharks and the warming waters of Long Island Sound, which create more favorable habitat.
Ecological implications
David Cochran, senior director of fish and invertebrates at Mystic Aquarium, said the increase is encouraging for the overall health of the ecosystem. “The more abundance there are of sharks, it gives you a better picture of the overall health of the ecosystem,” Cochran noted. He added that top predators help maintain balanced prey populations, removing weaker or sick individuals and thereby strengthening the genetic health of those species.
Low risk to humans
Both Molnar and Cochran stressed that the sharks commonly seen in the Sound are not a threat to swimmers or anglers. “These shark species do not feed on humans, attack humans,” Molnar said. “They’re primarily fish eaters.” Cochran agreed, describing the risk of a significant interaction as “very low.” He advised the public to practice situational awareness: “If you see a shark out there, give them space.”
Great whites remain rare visitors
While great white sharks have been spotted more often off the coast of Maine, Cochran said they rarely linger in Long Island Sound. “Great whites will, or can, make their way into the sound, but they generally don’t stay for very long. There’s not much for them to eat or to do,” he explained.
What the data means for residents
The upward trend suggests that Connecticut’s conservation measures are having a positive effect on marine life. It also underscores the importance of continued monitoring and public participation through the reporting app. Residents who fish, boat or simply enjoy the water are encouraged to download the app and submit sightings, helping scientists track changes over time.
Overall, the modest increase in shark numbers is viewed as a sign that the Sound’s ecosystem is recovering, offering reassurance to families, anglers and coastal communities that value both a healthy environment and safe recreational waters.
Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.
