Report a stranded animal

Sharks

What do I do if I see a stranded shark?

If you encounter a stranded shark, report the stranding to the North Carolina Shark Stranding Hotline by calling or texting (252) 216-2810 or emailing strandings@ncsharks.org.

Document the date and time of the sighting, and record the location using GPS coordinates or the nearest beach access point. Take clear photos of the shark and surrounding area, and include a recognizable object for scale if you don’t have a tape measure. Observe and record any unusual markings, visible injuries, fishing gear, or tags, as well as the shark’s position in relation to the waterline.

Can I take the teeth from a stranded shark?

It depends on the species. It’s important to know your sharks and understand which species are legal to harvest and which are protected or prohibited. Even if a protected species washes ashore and is already deceased, it is still illegal to remove, possess, or harvest any part of the animal.

What causes a shark to strand?

There are several reasons sharks may wash up on shore. Natural or biological causes include illness, injuries or predation wounds from other sharks, parasites, and age-related weakness. Environmental factors such as sudden temperature changes, low oxygen levels, harmful algal blooms, or strong storms can also contribute. In addition, human-related causes like bycatch or entanglement, boat strikes, pollution, and improper handling or release can lead to strandings as well.

Other marine animals

Mammals

Outer Banks Marine Mammal Stranding Network: (252) 455-9654 (for Currituck, Dare, and Hyde counties)

Cape Hatteras National Seashore: (252) 216-6892 (also a resource for marine mammal issues in the national seashore)

University of North Carolina Wilmington Marine Mammal Stranding Program: (910) 515-7354 (for central and southern coast)

Sea turtles

Network for Endangered Sea Turtles (NEST): (252) 441-8622 (Outer Banks)

Wrightsville Beach Sea Turtle Project:(833) 488-7853 (Wrightsville Beach)

Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center: (910) 329-0222 (Topsail Island)

If you’re unsure who to call, contact the NC Sea Turtle Hotline: (252) 241-7367