Shark presence may linger near Perth beaches weeks after whale carcass removal
Experts warn that sharks could remain attracted to Perth’s shoreline for weeks after a whale carcass was taken from City Beach, prompting beach closures and a pause in local swimming activities.
After a whale carcass was removed from City Beach, scientists caution that lingering traces of blubber and oil could continue to draw sharks to Perth’s coast for weeks. The warning comes shortly after a deadly shark attack at Sorrento Beach and has resulted in the City of Perth Surf Life Saving Club cancelling the Surf Life Saving WA Enduro Championship and shutting City, Floreat and Swanbourne beaches. Cottesloe’s PodSquad swimming group has halted its regular two-kilometre morning swim, citing safety concerns and the emotional impact of recent incidents.
The group urges an expansion of the shark-tagging program and investment in AI-enabled drones that can identify shark species near shore. Early installation of the seasonal shark barrier at Cottesloe Beach is also being considered to protect swimmers. Researchers note that the southwestern coast naturally attracts sharks between September and December due to whale migrations and the presence of other prey such as bluefin tuna.
Why it matters
Shark activity affects beach safety, local recreation, and tourism along Perth’s popular coastline.
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