Scarborough Beach Shark Sightings Prompt Safety Warning For Swimmers

The Scarborough Police Department is warning Mainers who are heading into ocean waters along the southern part of the state to be wary of what might be around them when boating or swimming (as you always should be.)

Located about 8 miles south of Portland in Cape Elizabeth, it is one of Maine's finest beaches with all the amenities, including a bathhouse with showers, a playground and snack bar. The beach is one mile long, and it's shaped like a crescent, of course.
" data-title="Crescent Beach State Park"/>John Pototschnik via YouTube

Authorities say there have been several sightings of what appears to be a possible great white shark in the area of Richmond Island and Scarborough Beach.

"The Scarborough Public Safety Team would like to inform the public of a potential shark sighting in local waters, specifically in the area off the south tip of Richmond Island, Crescent Beach State Park, Higgins Beach and Pine Point Beach. This notice is being shared for public situational awareness."

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David Lancaster was in that area, on his watercraft Monday, August 11th at about 10:00 AM, when he captured this drone footage of the animal.

The Marine Resource Officer says they estimate that the shark is between 10 and 12 feet long.

Authorities believe the same shark from the video from Monday, was spotted Tuesday morning (August 12th) in the Pine Point Beach area.

If you do happen to be in or around the water in that neck of the woods, and spot a large predatory fish, the Marine Resource Officer would like to know about it so they can inform the public to be on alert when in the area.

You can either email Daryen Granata directly at dgranata@scarboroughmaine.org or you can call (207) 730-4356.

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This is not the first time a possible Great White shark has been spotted along Maine's coast.

There have been multiple shark-sighting this summer alone, and they seem to be increasing with each passing year.

Authorities recommend that folks that venture into any of Maine's wilderness, whether it be the woods or the water, be respectful and observant of the wildlife they encounter.

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If you do dare to head out into the Maine waters, you might want to take a look at these tips for ideas on how to keep yourself as much out of harms way as you might have control over.

Remember, this is their territory and we're all just visitors of the great outdoors.