To many, white sharks are “the fish you love to hate,” triggering a primal panic unlike any other. To others, they are objects of fascination. To shark scientists and the folks at Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary they represent a vital part of our ocean ecosystem, deserving of our respect and in need of our protection.
Adult white sharks target the waters of Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary each fall to feed on our abundant seals and sea lions. These few months may represent their major “calorie banking” for the entire year. Come winter, they’ll leave abruptly for a site roughly 1,500 miles west of Ensenada – aka the White Shark Café. There, only squid and other less nutritious prey are abundant; but other whites congregate there, too: why? Perhaps to mate, but no one really knows.