Bathers who were enjoying some time on one of the beaches of Cayo Santa María, located north of the Villa Clara province, experienced moments of astonishment and caution when several sharks were spotted near the shore.
"Sharks in Cayo Santa María, Cuba, raise alarms and force tourists to leave the beach," shared journalist Mario Vallejo, along with a video showing the shark swimming very close to the shore.
Vallejo received an initial message informing him that there were no lifeguards at the location. However, in a later post, he clarified that a lifeguard reached out to say they were indeed present.
The presence of this marine predator apparently occurred at the Royalton Hotel, in the aforementioned Cuban cays.
It is not known how long the shark stayed near the shore before moving to deeper waters.
So far, it is also unknown if there was any attack, although warning signs have been placed on the beach.
In recent years, there have been several instances of sharks approaching Cuba’s shores, causing both astonishment and concern among residents and visitors.
Bathers were surprised in November 2022 by the proximity of three sharks at a beach in Camagüey. Witnesses captured footage of the sharks swimming close to the shore, while some tossed fish to feed them.
Previously, at La Boca beach, also in Camagüey, two sharks were spotted near the shore. One of them came closer and snatched the catch from a fisherman who was standing in the water, recording the event with his mobile phone.
A few months ago, in July, a sarda shark, locally known as "cabeza de batea," was also spotted near the shore at La Boca beach in Camagüey. This type of shark can be dangerous to humans, as it hunts in areas where people typically swim.
According to experts, sharks often approach the shore in pursuit of prey such as fish or rays. For instance, on Anna Maria Island, Florida, three hammerhead sharks were observed coming close to the shore, possibly in search of tarpon or rays.
Additionally, changes in currents can lead sharks to areas closer to the shore, whether due to the movement of their prey or environmental conditions that attract them.
Another reason is that during certain times of the year, sharks may come close to the shore to mate or give birth, which increases their presence in shallow areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shark Sightings in Cuba and Florida
Why do sharks come close to the shore in Cayo Santa María?
Sharks often approach the shore in search of prey such as fish or rays. Additionally, alterations in currents can lead sharks to areas closer to the coast, whether due to the movement of their prey or environmental conditions that attract them. Also, during certain times of the year, sharks may come nearer to the coasts to mate or give birth, increasing their presence in shallow waters.
Is it common to see sharks near the shore at Cuban beaches?
In recent years, there have been several sightings of sharks along the Cuban coasts, causing both astonishment and concern among residents and visitors. Examples of this have occurred on the beaches of Camagüey and Cayo Santa María.
What safety measures are taken when sharks are spotted near the beach?
When sharks are spotted, warning signs are posted on the beach, and bathers are advised to exit the water. It is important for tourists and residents to pay attention to the instructions from lifeguards and local authorities to avoid unnecessary risks.
How do shark sightings in Cuba compare to those in Florida?
In Florida, shark sightings are more frequent and often include incidents of attacks. Authorities usually warn swimmers about the presence of sharks, especially along the Gulf Coast. However, in Cuba, while there are reports of sightings, they are not as common and have not resulted in serious attacks on humans compared to Florida.
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