A massive great white shark, named Breton and monitored by scientists, is embarking on a novel migration route that challenges traditional scientific notions about the habitats and feeding habits of these creatures. Interestingly, it is making its way toward a popular tourist destination.
This 14-foot predator was tagged in September 2020 by the marine research organization OCEARCH, with the goal of identifying the mating grounds of great white sharks. Breton surfaced near Cape Hatteras in North Carolina on December 28, signaling its location to the tracking scientists. Since then, it has been steadily moving south towards the east coast of Florida, following previous pings in Daytona Beach, Florida in January 2025, and off Nova Scotia in Canada in 2020.
The data gathered indicates that rather than sticking to the assumed seal feasting grounds along the northeastern U.S. coast, Breton has ventured far offshore. This behavior challenges decades of research and has overturned previous assumptions about the distribution of great whites along the East Coast.
This discovery could potentially revolutionize the understanding of shark reproduction, as Breton’s winter whereabouts might unveil the locations where great white sharks gather for mating, a mystery that has puzzled scientists for years.
Chris Fischer, the founder and expedition leader of OCEARCH, commented on the unexpected findings, noting that the research has completely altered scientists’ prior beliefs about shark movements. He highlighted that Atlantic Canada serves as the primary summer and fall range for the white shark population off the East Coast of the United States.
Breton, being a large fully-grown male, presents a unique opportunity to study how these apex predators congregate for mating purposes. Fischer expressed excitement about the potential scientific revelations that Breton might offer, particularly regarding the elusive aspects of great white shark breeding that have confounded marine researchers for years.
As Breton continues his journey, Fischer hopes to observe interactions with other mature males and females in the region, providing valuable insights into the reproductive cycle of these creatures. The ongoing tracking of Breton, initially measured at 13 feet 3 inches and over 1,400 pounds, offers a promising avenue for further scientific exploration into the behavior and biology of great white sharks.