FAQs about Sharks in Gaspésie

Yes. Of the 28 species of sharks recorded in Canada, 11 are found in the waters of the St. Lawrence, which includes the river, estuary and gulf. Some are completely harmless to humans, such as basking sharks and small coastal sharks. Others, such as white sharks, are apex predators. Keep in mind, however, that shark encounters remain extremely rare, and direct interactions with sharks are even rarer.

White sharks may pose a risk to humans under certain specific conditions, but the actual danger remains very low. Like black bears in the Chic-Chocs or grizzlies in the Rockies, white sharks are simply one of the wildlife species found in the St. Lawrence. While white sharks have little interest in humans, their behaviour can become more unpredictable under certain conditions: poor visibility, the presence of seals, competition for food, or certain human activities such as fishing.

The presence of sharks in the St. Lawrence is a natural reality we must learn to live with. Peaceful coexistence remains possible through education, prevention and adherence to safety measures.

Like wolves, white sharks (often called great white sharks) have a terrifying reputation in pop culture, thanks in great part to TV shows and movies. While it’s true that they are predators and are therefore capable, in very rare instances, of attacking humans, white sharks do not live up to their reputation as bloodthirsty “man-eaters.” They’re a wildlife species that deserves to be understood and respected, just like black bears, coyotes and wolves.

In the Gulf of St. Lawrence, white sharks typically reach lengths of 3.5 to 5 metres (11.5 to 16.5 feet). Their upper bodies range in colour from lead or brownish grey to black while their underbellies are white. They’re the ocean’s largest predatory fish but can also fall prey to orcas. White sharks have an opportunistic diet: they’ll eat fish and marine mammals as well as birds, turtles and more, including carcasses. They have a particular fondness for seals, which they tend to hunt in shallow waters. The individuals observed in the St. Lawrence are mostly juveniles, present from June to November depending on prey availability and marine conditions.

In Canada, white sharks have been officially listed as endangered since 2011. Their population declined sharply in the 20th century, but conservation measures implemented in the 1990s are said to have led to an “increase in abundance,” according to the federal government. Today, the size of the white shark population in the Northwest Atlantic is unknown, but human activity remains the greatest threat to this species.

White sharks have been seasonal residents of Canada’s East and West coasts for a very long time, as attested by Mi’gmaq oral accounts. The St. Lawrence Shark Observatory (ORS) confirms that sightings “have increased dramatically throughout Atlantic Canada and Québec” in the last decade. This resurgence “primarily reflects the recovery of the Northwest Atlantic white shark population,” according to ORS lead researcher Jeffrey Gallant, who goes on to explain that, as a result, white sharks are progressively reclaiming their old hunting grounds.

The ORS has also concluded that climate change is not the main reason why white sharks are now sighted in greater numbers in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The recent increase in sightings in the Northwest Atlantic is more likely the result of their protected status as well as the abundance of prey, particularly grey seals, which have also experienced a population recovery. The ORS also points out that “the widespread adoption of smartphones, drones and social media has undoubtedly improved the documentation and reporting of sightings,” not to mention the sharp increase in scientific research and tagging studies.

As the ORS put it, “all indications suggest that white shark encounters will continue to increase as long as the species remains protected, and as long as humans continue to share the water with one of the ocean’s most remarkable predators.” This is why it’s so important to learn how to stay safe while in, on or around the St. Lawrence.

A visit to Gaspésie will give you lots of opportunities to enjoy the sea. No matter what you’re doing, the likelihood of encountering a white shark remains extremely low, but it’s not completely impossible. Fortunately, taking a few simple precautions can further reduce your risk of an encounter.

The first thing to do is to educate yourself. Understanding shark behaviour will put things into perspective and help you develop the right habits. Here are some simple tips to apply whenever you engage in sea activities:
1. Choose the right time and place:

• Avoid activities taking place at dawn, dusk or night when visibility in the water is reduced and white sharks are more active.

• Avoid areas with high levels of marine activity (schools of fish, fishing grounds, seal haul-outs and breeding colonies, etc.), as these are areas where sharks may be hunting for prey, often in shallow water.

• Watch for diving seabirds as this is a sign of feeding activity and may indicate the presence of sharks in the area.

2. Before entering the water:

• Always read and follow the signs on the beach.

• Do not enter the water if you have an open wound.

• On an unsupervised beach, stay close to the shore, in shallow water and in a group.

• Avoid murky waters and areas of poor visibility as well as river mouths where marine prey may be concentrated.

3. During the activity:

• Swim, paddle, surf or dive in a group.

• Pay attention to your surroundings at all times.

• Avoid sudden movements and heavy splashing, which sharks may interpret as signs of prey in distress.

• Avoid wearing jewellery or clothing that can reflect light and attract attention underwater.

• Never attempt to bait, feed or attract a shark, even out of curiosity.

Visit the St. Lawrence Shark Observatory website for more information and recommendations.

Here are the steps to follow if you see a shark:

If you’re in the water or out on the water:

• Stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and alert those around you.

• Get out of the water as calmly and quickly as possible.

• If you’re in or on a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard or other watercraft, return to shore at a steady pace.

• Stay facing the shark as much as possible without approaching it; avoid turning your back to it.

• Never attempt to approach, lure, touch or feed a shark, even from a watercraft.

• Do not block the shark’s path or attempt to push it away.

• Once you’re at a safe distance, leave the area without delay.

• In case of injury or emergency, call 911.

If you spot a shark from a safe location (shore, dock, boat):

• Keep your distance and observe the animal without approaching it.

• Alert the people around you so that everyone is aware of the situation.

• Take this opportunity to note down useful details: location, time, approximate size, colour, visible characteristics, behaviour, etc.

• Take a photo or video only if it can be done safely without getting any closer.

Sightings can be reported to government and scientific agencies. Every documented report increases our understanding of shark behaviour, which in turn helps improve prevention and increase safety:

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada: Email [email protected] or visit their Shark Sightings page for other ways to report sightings.

• St. Lawrence Shark Observatory: Email [email protected] or visit their contact page for more information.

Sharks play an essential role in marine ecosystems, particularly by regulating prey populations. Their presence in the St. Lawrence is an indication of the vitality of this rich and dynamic ecosystem and is not a sign of widespread danger but rather of an evolving marine environment. Gaspésie is proactively adapting to this new reality.

In recent years, tourism businesses in Gaspésie have evolved their practices in response to available knowledge and observed conditions. For example, depending on the sector, sea kayaking excursions are planned while considering shark sightings as well as any gatherings of seals. Some companies offering scuba diving, such as those found in Percé, also adjust their dive sites based on environmental conditions.

Local operators offering activities at sea are aware of the new realities brought about by the presence of sharks and stay updated on reported incidents and safety tips. As a result, regardless of their area of operations, companies adapt their practices based on available information, sightings, sea conditions and, above all, expert recommendations. Furthermore, depending on their sector, many continue to enhance their offerings with educational activities to help raise public awareness about sharks. In addition, operators participate in collective efforts to report sightings to the authorities and disseminate information to the public.

If you have any questions about a specific activity, please don’t hesitate to contact the company directly. They will be happy to explain how they take into account the realities of the marine environment in Gaspésie.

Just as black bears are part of the reality of hiking in our forests, white sharks are part of the reality of marine activities in Gaspésie. While they don’t consider humans as prey, they can pose a risk under certain conditions. The presence of white sharks in the Gulf of St. Lawrence therefore calls for vigilance. Do keep in mind, however, that direct encounters are extremely rare and attacks are even rarer.

Learning more about sharks, understanding their behaviour and knowing how to respond during an encounter will help you take the necessary precautions, no matter what activity you’re enjoying at sea. By staying informed and aware of the realities of marine life in Gaspésie, you’ll be able to fully and safely enjoy the sea during your visit to our region.