Great White Sharks Spotted Off Maine? Not Likely, Scientists Say
WELLS, Maine (CBS) -- Multiple reports of great white shark sightings in Maine waters over the weekend are likely a case of mistaken identity, experts say.
Police in Wells said Saturday that fishermen about 1.2 miles off Moody Beach reported seeing a great white shark, but officials were unable to confirm the sighting. The Portland Press Herald reported that there were two more possible sightings of great whites over the weekend, but still lacked official confirmation.
On Monday, scientists at the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy weighed in on the sightings.
"This is a photo of the shark spotted of Wells, Maine," a Facebook post stated. "This is the dorsal fin of a basking shark, not a white shark as reported on the news."
Basking sharks eat plankton, and are not a threat to humans. Their dorsal fins are more rounded than a great white shark's, according to the conservancy.
Wells police said they don't believe beach closures are necessary at this time, but anyone who sees a shark is encouraged to report it to police.
How To Tell The Difference Between Great White Sharks And Basking Sharks
