Great Hammerhead Shark Found Dead at Carolina Beach

CAROLINA BEACH, NORTH CAROLINA — A rare female great hammerhead shark measuring more than 12 feet long was found dead along the shoreline of Carolina Beach this week, drawing attention from state marine biologists and conservation advocates.

Discovery Along the Shoreline

The shark washed up near Sand Dollar Lane, where town officials quickly contacted the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Marine Fisheries division. Biologists responded to examine the animal and take samples for research.

“It was a female great hammerhead found off Sand Dollar Lane in Carolina Beach,” a spokesperson confirmed in a statement to 1011 Now.

According to officials, the shark measured 9 feet 4 inches from snout to the fork of its tail and 12 feet 2.5 inches to the tip, weighing around 600 pounds.

Preserved for Scientific Research

After initial examination, the shark was transported for further study. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences announced plans to preserve the shark’s head for display and education, while the remainder of the body was disposed of at a processing facility (1011 Now).

This effort ensures the specimen can serve as a long-term educational tool about endangered shark species and marine conservation.

About the Great Hammerhead

The great hammerhead shark (Sphyrna mokarran) is the largest species of hammerhead, often reaching lengths of 13 feet or more. The species is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, facing steep population declines due to overfishing and demand for shark fins (IUCN Red List).

Brig. Gen. Gilbert Mittawa of the Malawi Defense Force, speaking at a separate marine law forum, underscored the broader environmental importance of such species:

“Experiences like this deepen our understanding of ecosystems and highlight the need for collaboration to protect vulnerable species.”

As apex predators, hammerheads play a vital role in maintaining balance in ocean food chains. Their loss could have ripple effects across marine ecosystems.

Why This Discovery Matters

• Offers marine biologists a rare research opportunity with DNA and tissue samples.
• Raises public awareness about endangered marine life along U.S. coastlines.
• Highlights the importance of community reporting when unusual wildlife is found.

The Carolina Beach sighting adds to a growing list of rare hammerhead encounters along the East Coast, where warming waters and habitat pressures may be shifting migration and feeding patterns.

Carolina Beach readers — have you ever seen unusual marine life along the North Carolina shoreline? Share your experiences in the comments, and follow ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for more environmental and wildlife news.