Great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) are found in various locations around the world, and their distribution can be influenced by factors such as water temperature, prey availability, and migration patterns. Some of the notable areas where great white sharks are frequently observed include:
- California, USA:
- The waters off the coast of California, particularly around regions like the Farallon Islands, Point Reyes, and Guadalupe Island, are known for great white shark activity. The Farallon Islands, in particular, are a well-known feeding ground for these sharks.
- South Africa:
- Seal Island near Cape Town is famous for its great white shark population. Shark Alley, located between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, is a popular area where great whites are known for preying on seals.
- Australia:
- Various coastal regions in Australia, including South Australia (Neptune Islands), Western Australia, and New South Wales, are known for great white shark presence. The waters around the southern part of the country are considered hotspots.
- New Zealand:
- Areas around New Zealand, such as the Chatham Islands, Stewart Island, and the waters of the South Island, are known to have great white sharks.
- Mexico:
- Guadalupe Island, off the coast of Baja California, is a popular location for cage diving with great white sharks. The crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot to observe these predators.
- South America:
- Regions along the coasts of Argentina and Chile, particularly around Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia, are known for great white shark activity.
- Mediterranean Sea:
- While less common, great white sharks have been occasionally reported in the Mediterranean Sea. Their presence is usually associated with the western and southern parts of the basin.
- Southwest Pacific:
- Some regions in the Southwest Pacific, including parts of Japan and South Korea, have reported great white shark sightings.
It’s important to note that great white sharks are highly migratory and can cover vast distances. They may move between different regions and even cross entire ocean basins. Conservation efforts are underway to better understand their behavior, migratory patterns, and the factors influencing their movements in order to protect and manage their populations. If you’re interested in observing great white sharks, consider doing so through responsible ecotourism practices, such as cage diving with reputable operators who prioritize the safety of both sharks and humans.