A seal had a chunk taken out of it by a great white shark cruising the coastal waters of Washington, authorities say.
The 18-foot-long shark is likely responsible for the marine mammal that washed ashore last week near Ocean Shores and was missing its lower body.
Scientists with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife say the culprit is a great white shark based on the gap between its teeth found on bite marks.
Though the fish can be found around the globe with large populations along California, it’s unusual for the predator to lurk so close to shore, Fish and Wildlife spokesman Craig Bartlett told the Daily News.
“Usually they’re chasing schools of tuna and other prey often 40 miles off shore. They travel great distances in that pursuit, but the basic habitat isn’t close to shore,” Bartlett said.
A beachgoer found the seal victim Feb. 19, a female with a stomach full of smelt and no legs, photos show.
A second seal discovered Saturday was thought to have been attacked by the shark as well, but died after being tangled in a fishing net, authorities said.
Local authorities have told divers, surfers and swimmers to beware, but Bartlett warns that riptides and cold water serve as the region’s biggest danger.
The shark may have traveled north on a warm current. They hang out off the coast all year regardless of winter.
Bartlett says Washington has had only two great white shark attacks in recorded history. A surfer was attacked in 1989 near Aberdeen, according to the Shark Research Committee’s website.
Another attack occurred during the 19th century. Neither of the attacks were fatal.
Great whites are listed as a vulnerable species and are considered protected in U.S. waters.
With News Wire Services.
