Sharks Will Stay in New York Waters ‘Longer’ This Year, Research Says

New York will have sharks in its waters for longer than usual this year according to new research supported by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

While sharks are a healthy party of almost every ocean ecosystem, their presence near beaches is enough to make many swimmers nervous. While attacks are extremely rare, they still do happen locally with New York beaches closing for shark warnings as recently as last week.

Shark Sightings in New York State

For four days between July 3 and July 6, sharks were spotted at New York's Rockaway Beach (below), leading to both short and long-term closures of the popular destination. Now scientists are saying there may be even more sightings that usual in the coming weeks.

Why Are Sharks Staying in New York State Longer?

The NYS DEC says that sharks may be extending their normal stay in New York waters due to a phenomenon that is affecting ocean life across the globe. Rising water temperatures, the DEC explains, could be affecting their internal migration clocks.

Read More: Photos: Which Sharks Are Illegal to Catch in New York 

Stony Brook University Research Paper Shows Disrupted Shark Migrations

In a recent post (below), the NYS DEC shared that a new research paper from Stony Brook University found evidence that several species of sharks are experiencing "delayed departure dates" from the waters where they spend their summer months, including New York State.

Which Shark Species Are Staying in New York Waters Longer?

According to the recent paper, the species most affected by rising sea surface temperatures is the sandbar shark, a protected shark in New York State. Sand tiger and white sharks, also both protected in the state, have seen the least effects.

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While this news is more frightening for ocean ecosystems than beachgoers looking forward to their vacations, research shows that this trend may continue. Check out basic tips to keep extra-safe from shark bites below, and keep scrolling to see the protected sharks of New York State.