Great White Shark Named After Jane Goodall Pings Near Florida Gulf Coast
Port Richey, Florida – A massive great white shark, affectionately named “Goodall” in honor of renowned primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, has been detected off the coast of Florida, sparking interest among researchers and raising awareness as spring break season heats up.
The nearly 1,400-pound, 13-foot-1-inch female shark was tracked by the non-profit research organization OCEARCH, pinging approximately nine miles off Port Richey on March 17, according to reports. Port Richey is located roughly 40 miles north of Tampa, a popular destination for the approximately 1.4 million British tourists who visit Florida each year.
OCEARCH, which conducts collaborative research in the Atlantic Canada region, highlighted Goodall’s significance, stating she “will play an important role in advancing science.” The tracking data contributes to a broader understanding of white shark movement and behavior in the region.
Goodall’s journey is not unusual. The shark was previously recorded over 4,700 miles away in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, last September. Like many sharks, she appears to be following a seasonal migration pattern, heading south to warmer waters in the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico during the winter months.
Female great white sharks typically grow larger than males, potentially reaching lengths of up to 16 feet. Goodall’s size is substantial, though smaller than the largest reliably measured great white, a 19.5-foot specimen recorded off the coast of Western Australia in 1987.
Great white sharks are apex predators, with a diverse diet including whales, seals, fish, and turtles. OCEARCH emphasizes the importance of continued research and conservation efforts to protect these vital marine animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. The organization views Goodall as a symbol of how scientific understanding can drive environmental protection.
The sighting comes as Florida prepares for a surge in visitors during spring break. While shark encounters are rare, authorities and researchers continue to monitor shark activity and provide guidance for safe ocean practices.