Tyler Wynn
Currituck Sound is a popular fishing destination in North Carolina, attracting anglers from across the country since the late 1800s. The region is known for its unique ecosystem, accommodating both freshwater and saltwater species. While Currituck Sound is renowned for its diverse fish species, including largemouth bass, flounder, and trout, there have been reports of shark sightings in the area. In 2017, a tiger shark was detected near Corolla, North Carolina, sparking curiosity about the presence of sharks in the Currituck Sound. Shark populations, particularly bull sharks, have been observed to be increasing in nearby regions like the Outer Banks and Pamlico Sound. While there is a possibility of sharks venturing into the Currituck Sound, it is important for anglers and swimmers to be cautious and aware of shark activity, especially during dawn and dusk when sharks are most active.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Currituck Sound, North Carolina |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Wildlife | Saltwater and freshwater species, waterfowl, Canadian geese, ducks, herons, egrets, ibises, largemouth bass, flounder, trout, sunfish, catfish, crabs |
| Attractions | Historic Corolla Park, Whalehead in Historic Corolla, Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, Pirate-themed 18-hole miniature golf course |
| Shark Presence | Possible tiger shark presence in May 2017; no confirmed great white shark presence in November 2019 |
| Nearby Waters | Albemarle Sound, Pamlico Sound, Alligator River, Outer Banks |
| Shark Species in Nearby Waters | Bull sharks, tiger sharks, great white sharks |
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What You'll Learn
Tracking data suggests sharks are in the area
Tracking data from Ocearch, a marine research organisation, has suggested that sharks may be present in the Currituck Sound area. In August 2019, Ocearch.org's shark tracker map indicated a shark presence in North Carolina's Currituck Sound, near Corolla. While this is possible, it should be noted that Ocearch.org satellite pings have a variance of about 20 miles, which can result in inaccuracies.
Supporting this possibility, in May 2017, Ocearch tracked a 300-pound tiger shark that "pinged" in the Currituck Sound near Corolla, North Carolina. Sharks "ping" when they surface, sending a satellite signal that allows researchers to map their locations. This tracking data is made publicly available by Ocearch.
In a separate incident in November 2019, Ocearch's tracking data initially indicated the presence of a great white shark in the Albemarle Sound, near the mouth of the Alligator River in North Carolina. However, this was later attributed to low-quality tracking data, as the transmitter pinged from outside the Outer Banks near Kitty Hawk the following day. While this specific sighting was incorrect, Ocearch founder Chris Fischer emphasised that white sharks do enter sounds, recalling a shark that frequently swam in and out of the Ocracoke Inlet to the Pamlico Sound.
Bull sharks, considered one of the most dangerous shark breeds to humans, have been reported to multiply in the Outer Banks, specifically in the Pamlico Sound. Warmer waters and lower salinity have been cited as factors contributing to their increased breeding in the area. While juvenile bull sharks are generally not aggressive towards people, it is advised to avoid swimming at dusk and dawn, when sharks are most active, and to refrain from wearing flashy jewellery or swimming amidst large schools of fish.
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Sharks in Currituck Sound are not uncommon
In May 2017, a 300-pound tiger shark was tracked by Ocearch in the Currituck Sound near Corolla, North Carolina. The shark pinged when it surfaced, sending a satellite tracker of its location. While this occurrence may be rare, it is not impossible, and the presence of sharks in the sound should be taken seriously.
The Currituck Sound serves as a temporary home for thousands of migrating waterfowl, including Canadian geese, ducks, herons, egrets, and ibises. It is also a popular fishing destination, with anglers travelling from across the country to fish in its waters. The most prized fish in the Currituck Sound is the largemouth bass, which is making a gradual comeback to the region after decades of overfishing.
Additionally, the population of bull sharks near the coast of the Outer Banks is multiplying. Warmer waters and lower salinity have led to an increase in bull shark breeding in the Pamlico Sound. While juvenile bull sharks are not typically aggressive towards people, it is still important to take precautions when swimming in areas known for shark activity.
Overall, while shark attacks in Currituck Sound may be uncommon, the presence of sharks in the area is not unheard of, and it is important to be cautious when swimming in these waters.
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The Sound's unique ecosystem
The Currituck Sound in North Carolina is a nature lover's paradise. It offers a unique ecosystem that has attracted hunters and anglers for centuries. The sound is bordered by undisturbed marshlands, dense thickets of maritime forest, and small, marshy islands teeming with wildlife. Its landscape is ideal for hunters and nature enthusiasts, providing a comfortable and temporary home to thousands of migrating waterfowl. The sound is also known for its exceptional kayaking, bird watching, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and boating opportunities.
One of the distinctive features of the Currituck Sound is its varied salinity levels. Unlike most other sounds along the East Coast, Currituck Sound is not primarily a saltwater environment. In fact, since the late 1700s, its only connection to the ocean is through the Oregon Inlet, located approximately 40 miles south of Corolla. This unique characteristic has allowed a diverse range of freshwater and saltwater species to thrive, making it a popular fishing destination. Species found in the sound include flounder, trout, sunfish, catfish, crabs, and the prized largemouth bass, which is making a comeback after years of overfishing.
The Currituck Sound has a rich history, dating back to the early days of out-of-state visitors to the North Carolina coast. It was well-known among New England and New York aristocrats as a prime location for adventurous duck hunting and fishing. Rustic yet regal hunt clubs sprang up along the Northern Outer Banks, attracting hunters and anglers alike. Today, the sound remains largely untouched, with miles of terrain to explore and a thriving ecosystem that draws nature enthusiasts and adventurers from near and far.
In recent decades, efforts have been made to protect and preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Currituck Sound. Portions of Corolla and Carova bordering the sound have been sectioned off to ensure that the regions remain undeveloped and serve as a safe haven for wildlife. These areas include the Currituck Banks National Estuarine Preserve, the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, and the Mackey's Island National Wildlife Refuge. Additionally, the Currituck Sound Coalition was formed in October 2019 by Audubon North Carolina to foster collaboration among diverse partners on ecosystem restoration and conservation in the sound.
The Currituck Sound, with its unique blend of saltwater and freshwater environments, its rich history, and its diverse wildlife, continues to be a cherished natural treasure, offering a wild and beautiful escape for explorers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Bull shark populations are multiplying in OBX
While there have been some reports of tiger sharks in the Currituck Sound, these appear to be the result of inaccurate satellite data. In 2019, Ocearch's satellite tracker showed a tiger shark in the Currituck Sound near Corolla, North Carolina. However, this was attributed to a variance in the satellite ping, which can be up to 20 miles.
However, the presence of bull sharks in the Outer Banks (OBX) region is a different story. In 2018, it was reported that the population of bull sharks in the Pamlico Sound, part of the OBX, was multiplying. Dr. Charles Bangley, a postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, attributed this increase to warmer waters and lower salinity levels in the sound. From 2003 to 2011, six juvenile bull sharks were captured in the Pamlico Sound, indicating a growing presence in the area.
Bull sharks are considered one of the most dangerous shark breeds to humans. However, Bangley reassures that the juvenile bull sharks in the OBX are typically not aggressive towards people. While the presence of bull sharks in the Pamlico Sound is notable, it is important to remember that shark attacks are rare.
The Outer Banks, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and wildlife refuges, has historically attracted hunters and anglers. The Currituck Sound, a unique freshwater ecosystem, is significant to the region as it accommodates both freshwater and saltwater species, making it a hotspot for fishing and biological research. The sound is fed solely by rainwater, which has resulted in its freshwater qualities over the past 200 years.
While the increasing population of bull sharks in the OBX may be a cause for concern, it is important to follow safety guidelines when swimming in any area known for shark activity. This includes avoiding swimming at dusk and dawn, when sharks are most active, and staying away from large schools of fish, which can attract sharks. By taking these precautions, swimmers can minimize their risk of encountering sharks, including the multiplying bull shark population in the OBX.
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Safety advice for swimmers
While Currituck Sound is a popular destination for fishing and wildlife enthusiasts, swimmers should be aware of potential safety risks, including the presence of sharks. Here are some safety advice for swimmers in the Currituck Sound area:
First and foremost, it is important to recognize that sharks do inhabit the waters of Currituck Sound. In 2017, a 300-pound tiger shark was tracked in the area, and while this may be an isolated incident, it highlights the potential risk. Additionally, the nearby Pamlico Sound has seen an increase in the population of bull sharks, which are considered one of the most dangerous shark breeds to humans.
To minimize the risk of an encounter with a shark, it is recommended to avoid swimming at dusk and dawn, as these are the times when sharks are most active. It is also advised to refrain from wearing flashy jewelry while swimming, as it can attract unwanted attention from sharks. If you see large schools of fish, avoid swimming in these areas, as sharks may be feeding there.
It is worth noting that juvenile bull sharks, which have been found in the nearby Pamlico Sound, are typically not aggressive towards people. However, it is still important to be cautious and follow general shark safety guidelines.
In addition to shark safety, swimmers should also be aware of the unique characteristics of Currituck Sound. The sound has a massive size and freshwater quality, which sets it apart from neighboring sounds. This ecosystem can accommodate both freshwater and saltwater species, so swimmers should be mindful of potential wildlife encounters beyond just sharks.
Overall, when swimming in Currituck Sound, it is important to remain vigilant and informed about potential risks. Follow local news and advisories, and if you have any concerns, reach out to local authorities or wildlife organizations for the most up-to-date information on swimming safety in the area.
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Frequently asked questions
No, there are no great white sharks in Currituck Sound. In 2019, researchers tracked what appeared to be a great white shark in the area. However, this was later found to be incorrect due to low-quality satellite data.
Yes, tiger sharks have been spotted in the Currituck Sound. In May 2017, a 300-pound tiger shark was tracked near Corolla, North Carolina. It's important to note that the Currituck Sound is mostly freshwater, which is not a typical habitat for sharks.
Yes, sharks are present in other waters off the coast of North Carolina. For example, bull sharks have been reported in the Outer Banks and Pamlico Sound. The Atlantic continental shelf waters off North Carolina are known to be a winter hotspot for large white sharks.
