Lots of Sharks Expect on NYC Beaches This Summer as State Takes Extra Measures

A number of factors, including rising ocean temperatures, are contributing to an increase in shark numbers along the New York coast this summer. NBC New York.

For this reason, the state has expanded its drone program to track sharks. The Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Authority bought two more drones during the winter and trained eight more people to fly them. By July 4, they plan to buy three more drones and train 10 more operators.

Scientists say sharks are swimming north into cooler waters earlier than usual. The resurgence of the bunker fish population is also attracting them to local waters.

“People don't want to hear this, but I often see sharks either right in the waves,” said biologist and Shark Week host Craig O'Connell. “These animals use areas with optimal temperatures and sufficient prey.”

On the subject: More than 20 sharks sailed to the beaches of New York: vacationers are evacuated

While shark attacks on humans are rare, some species have been known to swim in shallow waters. For example, bull sharks and tiger sharks. Last summer, several bull sharks were spotted off the south coast of Long Island.

New visitors to the area this summer may include tropical hammerhead sharks. They are usually concentrated on stingrays and other bottom dwellers.

"They're not going to jump out on the beach and attack a swimmer because they think it's going to be food," said Chris Paparo, manager of the Stony Brook University Marine Science Center.