Hollywood residents were taken aback last month by the sight of a sizable mako shark navigating the waters of North Lake, part of the city’s Intracoastal Waterway. The shark, estimated to be between 10 to 12 feet long, exhibited uncharacteristic behavior by venturing into the brackish, shallow waters typically unfrequented by its species.
Local residents, accustomed to observing dolphins and manatees, expressed concern over the shark’s presence. Many noted the shark appeared sluggish and disoriented, often swimming in circles and occasionally colliding with docks and boats.
Marine biologists from Nova Southeastern University, including Dr. Mahmood Shivji, highlighted the unusual nature of the sighting, stating that mako sharks are generally found in deeper offshore waters and rarely venture close to shore.
In response to the situation, the Hollywood Police Department’s Marine Unit collaborated with marine biologists to assess the shark’s condition and devise a plan to guide it back to its natural habitat. The team, led by shark specialist Derek Burkholder, successfully towed the shark back to the open sea, hoping it would recover and return to its typical offshore environment.
This rare incident served as a reminder of the dynamic interactions between marine life and coastal communities. Authorities advised residents to remain vigilant and avoid approaching such wildlife, emphasizing the importance of coexisting safely with the diverse marine species inhabiting Florida’s waterways.
