Photo: Arrollado, Jean (uploader)
CHATHAM, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — White sharks are no laughing matter, but some of their nicknames might elicit a chuckle or two.
Researchers at the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy in Chatham are keeping an eye on the apex predators as they swim in the waters of Cape Cod and the South Shore, both with first-hand sightings and detection buoys.
"White sharks are really amazing," research coordinator Ashley Novak told WBZ NewsRadio. "So far we have over 600 previously identified individuals."
With so many sharks to keep track of, the conversancy has taken to giving the sharks nicknames, many of which are inspired by the creature's markings.
"It might seem silly, but it’s actually really useful for us to go back and being like, oh, that’s white shark Broken Tail, because it has a broken tail," Novak said. "That’s white shark Mocha Chip because she is covered with these thousands of little freckles that is very unique."
Other sharks spotted off Chatham include Mr. Spotclaw, Squidward, Portal, Fruit Loops, Luke, Cheerio, Big Daddy, Scarface, and Scoop, There It Is.
Beachgoers can stay afloat on shark sightings and detections in their area thanks to the conservancy's Sharktivity app.
WBZ's Madison Rogers (@MadisonWBZ) reports.
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