Very Large Snowbird Is Making His Way South

Gulf Shores News Staff • November 17, 2025

Largest known great white male shark heading south

Great White Shark Moving South

You can't blame something that has been hanging out in the frigid Canadian waters for wanting to explore areas south during the winter season. If you are the largest known male Great White Shark, your trip might make headlines as people follow your moves.


Contender, an adult male white shark, was tagged by OCEARCH in January. He is just 1,653 pounds and over 13 feet long. His age is estimated to only be 32 years old, making him on the young side of the Snowbird norms.


The huge shark was first tagged in January of 2025 and spent the past few months in waters of the North Atlantic. Members of the OCEARCH team recently notified the press that Contender was on the move and likely headed to southern water on the east coast.


SEE MORE: Track Contender's Movement HERE


Many shark species, particularly those in the Northern Atlantic, migrate south for the winter to follow food sources and seek warmer waters. The changing seasons, decreasing water temperatures, and shorter daylight hours trigger this annual migration. They move from summer feeding grounds off New England and Canada down the eastern coast, with some spending winter off the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. 


As Contender makes his way south one wonders if he has any other snowbird tendencies? Does he eat early in the day?

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