Home / Environment / Great Hammerhead Washed Ashore in NC with Laceration
Great Hammerhead Washed Ashore in NC with Laceration
4 Aug
Summary
- A 14-foot female great hammerhead washed ashore Sunday morning.
- The shark suffered a deep tail laceration and had fishing gear in its mouth.
- This critically endangered species has a nearly straight, broad head shape.
A large, 14-foot female great hammerhead shark was discovered deceased on a North Carolina beach early Sunday morning. Local experts noted the shark had sustained a significant deep laceration at the base of its tail, which would have severely impacted its ability to swim. Additionally, fresh puncture wounds were observed in its mouth, suggesting entanglement with fishing gear.
Conservation volunteers from the North Carolina Shark Conservancy responded to the scene, collected biological samples for genetic and educational purposes, and took measurements and photos. The conservancy collaborated with local municipalities to manage the situation. The great hammerhead shark, known for its broad, nearly straight hammer-shaped head, is listed as critically endangered globally, though not currently on the U.S. federal endangered species list.
