Another point against bull sharks making it to Lake Michigan is the extreme difficulty. Lake Michigan is home to a wide variety of bird species that including herring. Swimming in Lake Michigan can be a safe and enjoyable activity as long as proper precautions are taken. Speargun traps are being installed in the Soo Locks to keep sharks out of the lake from now on. This was originally published in the Chicago Tribune on Oct. 13, 1975: Q: After assuring my children they would not be attacked by sharks if they swam in Lake Michigan, I found an account of a shark killing a Chicago boy by the name of George Lawson in the lake. Rumor has it that a Bull Shark was once caught in Lake Michigan in the 1950's but that's about all the information we have. There are still a few questions to answer about this shark species, so lets take a look! This website participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The varied names stem from the many habitats in which the bull shark resides. The record for a muskie in Michigan is around 4.5 feet long and weighing approximately 50 lbs. A bull shark attacked a 7-year-old boy swimming in Lake Pontchartrain in 2014. When full-grown, they can reach a length of 8 feet and weigh over 100 lbs. With this being said, due to the distribution of Asian Carp through the Midwest and Mississippi waters, this could offer the Bull Sharks a reliable food source. Hence, the Great Lakes arent a great place for a lot of species of sharks. We have lots more on the site to show you. If this animal tried to enter from the other side, the bull shark would somehow have to cross Niagara Falls, which borders the Canadian state of Ontario and cross Lake Huron to enter Lake Michigan. Another example is cataloged in the Global Shark Attack File, a listing to track shark attacks by the non-profit Shark Research Institute. It was there that two commercial fishermen in 1937 noticed that their mesh traps were consistently getting raided by a large predator. Though the algae itself is harmless, in large numbers it can release cyanotoxins. These fish have been known to attack humans in rare situations. The lake is known for its beautiful scenery, including sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and clear blue waters. This is due to the cold temperatures of the lakes and that the majority of sharks need salt water in order to survive. Unlike most sharks, bull sharks can survive in freshwater for long periods of time. Some of the most popular and well-known fish you can find in the Great Lake include Lake Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Bowfin, Largemouth Bass, and many more. For. Whats more, is that one female can lay up to 150,000 eggs each year. In other words, if there is a bull shark heading straight for you, trying to swim away probably wont help you. However, the evidence that theyre in Lake Michigan is nonexistent or, in one case, questionable. You've only seen one page. Their kidneys function a bit differently and they have special glands in their tails that allow them to keep salt in their bodies even when they are in freshwater. Well, the answer might surprise you! The bull shark's range normally spans thousands of miles, from Massachusetts to Brazil, which falls in the southern part of North America, meaning it is closer to the equator and has warmer waters. Ensuing publicity regarding the prospect of sharks in the lake brought forth a confession from a tavern owner, who said two of his customers planted the fish in the lake for him as a joke. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our, Global Shark Attack file: George Lawson case >>>, Dansby Swanson, bloodied by his own helmet, helps the Chicago Cubs shake off a weekend sweep with a 5-1 win, Discovery channeled. It grabbed her foot, and she kicked it with her other foot, and the fish released her foot, but there were 25 lacerations, and she had to have surgery to repair tendons and get stitches. It was a real 29-inch shark not a fake, that two Coho fishermen pulled from the lake about two miles off the Milwaukee shore on April 25, 1969. They are bottom feeders, feeding on soft live food, such as worms, leeches, and insect larvae. Compared to other requiem sharks, bull sharks are usually stockier and heavier, but there are larger sharks in this species. Bull sharks have been discovered in the Mississippi River, which flows into. The salt concentration is lower than that of the ocean, but higher than freshwater. The furthest inland a bull shark has ever been seen in North America is Alton, Ill. Alton sits along the Mississippi River about 15 miles north of St. Louis, and 1750 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Though scientists dont quite have an answer as to why they can do this, they are searching for a way to understand it. At that moment, fortunately, a wave carried the surfer and the paddle board back to shore, he said. The most likely explanation is that it was a pet that got too big and that was dumped into the lake, where it subsequently died. Others among the hundreds of shark species scientists have identified can live only for a while in the brackish, somewhat salty water in estuaries the area where freshwater rivers and streams meet the ocean, also called a bay, lagoon, sound or slough. Its highly unlikely that you will find bull sharks in Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan is a freshwater lake, the 3rd largest Lake in North America, approximately 118 miles max-width (91 miles min-width) and 307 miles long. Required fields are marked *. Typically, you will find a Bull Shark in freshwater all over the world. Many are harmless, but some of the species can create toxins that make people and animals sick. These creatures do not attack humans, instead preferring to go after different fish. Bull sharks have the reputation of being among the top three shark species responsible for attacks on humans, the other two being great whites and tiger sharks. Try to pet one, and you may lose a few fingers. Ensuing publicity regarding the prospect of sharks in the lake and whether they posed a threat to swimmers brought forth a confession from a tavern owner (William Bathke), who said two of his customers planted the fish in the lake for him as a joke. Although they are far from the longest type of sharks, the width and stockiness of the bull shark is quite imposing. Though there have been some reports of bull sharks existing in Lake Michigan, there has not been a lot of scientific evidence to support these claims, nor have any people been attacked. Although, its not a fish most would want to catch. While there have been occasional reports of bull sharks being found in freshwater environments such as rivers, it is unlikely that they would be able to establish a breeding population in a freshwater lake such as Lake Michigan. Bull sharks are the most common freshwater shark and can survive in freshwater environments. Even though you may see sharks swimming up and down the connecting rivers to Lake Michigan and the ocean, it is very unlikely that you will actually find any bull sharks there. In the Great Lakes, the fish are much smaller than the typical prey that sharks hunt for in the ocean. Stories like those give pause to landlocked Midwesterners. Unfortunately, these blooms can last from a few days to a few weeks. Bull sharks are primarily found in saltwater environments such as estuaries and coastal areas and are known for their ability to tolerate freshwater as well. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Take this example of an 11-year old girl in Minnesota. : A, Are There Sharks in Americas Great Lakes? Taking in enough contaminated water can damager your liver or kidneys. While these turtles are not aggressive, they have a powerful bite and can cause serious injury if handled improperly. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. Mosquitos and black-legged ticks carry diseases that can leave you battling illness for the rest of your life. A number of people have asked us about that. This is because the Bull Shark is one of very few species that has physiologically changing abilities. Two Coho fishermen pulled a 29-inch shark from Lake Michigan about two miles off the Milwaukee shore on April 25, 1969. However, Lake Michigan is a large freshwater lake located in the northern United States, far from the typical habitats of bull sharks. However, sharks cant make their way to the actual Lake from the ocean because of dams that stop the contact between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River. Without it, most would probably write off the story as another example of fishermen stretching the truth. Films like Jaws have conditioned us to see sharks as the ultimate ocean predatorsman-eaters with an insatiable appetite for human flesh. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. Like all predatory animals, muskies are largely opportunists, and so might try to eat anything if they are hungry enough. Thus, they may end up in the lakes during the end of summer because the water is slightly warmer. More people are killed from vending machines than bull sharks. : Are There, 3 White Shark Cage Diving Tours In California, How Aggressive Are Bull Sharks? Then on top of that, they would have to deal with the issues and stresses of being in freshwater and the lack of salt. In 1955, a young boy was reportedly bitten by a shark in the lake, and people have made a couple of other reports of seeing sharks there. The biggest concern for people planning to swim in this lake is not a bull shark attack, but how to deal with the dangerous riptides! In fact, just 80 incidents of shark attacks are recorded every single year, yet millions of sharks are killed as a result of shark fin fishing and the use of shark nets. Known as Huskie the Muskie, it is the citys unofficial mascot. The Grom Life participates in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products. Have you seen any dangerous creatures in or around Lake Michigan? We Took A Closer Look, Are There Any Sharks In Myrtle Beach: 9 Common Sharks, Is It Safe To Swim And Dive In The Maldives? After that, theyll migrate back to the ocean to complete their life cycle. Bull sharks are commonly found in estuaries, where freshwater rivers meet the ocean, and in coastal areas such as bays and lagoons. The Lake Michigan swimmer and water sports enthusiast has nothing to fear from these sleepy giants. Its a parasite that clamps onto its prey with those teeth, then uses its rough tongue to create a hole in the skin to get at the blood and other fluids. Theyll then head up freshwater streams such as the Mississippi and Hudson rivers where theyll spend 10 to 25 years maturing. These large waves are usually caused by changes in the air pressure and winds moving across the surface of the lake. [confirmed!] My name is Mikayla Adams and I have swum with sharks six times so far. Pro Tip: After searching for creepy creatures in Lake Michigan, explore these 7 Amazing Waterfalls in Michigan. Bull sharks are some of the only cartilaginous fish found in freshwater and they are able to survive a variety of salinities. Access the list by submitting your email below: Home What Are The Most Dangerous Creatures in Lake Michigan, Why We Bought a 40 Foot Alliance 5th Wheel RV, View the Drivin & Vibin Privacy Policy Here, What Are The Most Dangerous Creatures in Lake Michigan. Usually, adults spend their time in deeper waters. Thanks to the Mississippi River, they have been found as far north as Minnesota and Illinois. The algal organisms bloom rapidly reproduce when the water contains a large amount of their favorite nutrients, the temperature becomes warm, and the water has low movement. In 2020, 53 people drowned in Lake Michigan, setting a record for yearly drowning deaths. The Ultimate Guide To Shark Cage Diving In Florida, Everything You Need To Know About Tiny Sharks And Why Theyre Nothing To Be Afraid Of. Bull Sharks will rarely swim beyond the Mississippi basin. Lake of the Ozarks is located in South-central Missouri, U.S., and spans an area of 84.37 mi. It can live in both saltwater and freshwater and is found all over the world. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Things To Keep In Mind When. Though the largest wave to be recently recorded was 23 ft (7.1 m), which occurred in September 2011, the largest wave ever from Lake Michigan to actually strike the coast of Michigan was around 10 ft (3 m). The temperature of the Great Lakes, as well as the weather surrounding them, is actually quite low with water temperatures ranging from between 41-48 F (5-9 C). The tiger shark, for instance, can grow up to 18 feet. And, there has never been a scientifically-documented case of a shark found in Lake Michigan. Similarly, the Midwest has the water systems and food sources to support a bull shark, but it simply isnt warm enough. The Vintage Tribune newsletter is a deep dive into the Chicago Tribune's archives featuring photos and stories about the people, places and events that shape the city's past, present and future. Lake Michigan is responsible for the most deaths happening in a lake per year, which averages out to 38. There have only been reports of small populations in the extreme corners of the lake and not full-fledged infestations. You could also run into a rattlesnake, black bear, or rarely, a gray wolf. If you swallow any water with these toxins in it, you could end up with gastrointestinal or even neurotoxic issues including vomiting, numbness, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. The area had the brackish, shallow water that bull shark pups like, but water temps werent warm enough for bull sharks until only recently. Still, there has never been a scientifically-documented report of a bull shark being found in Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan & Mississippi River Intrigue Journal 2.17K subscribers Subscribe 3.8K 326K views 2 years ago Killer sharks in the. Is It Possible For A Shark To Swim Backwards? Alligators Run Faster Than Humans. Though bull sharks have been spotted in the Mississippi River, which joins Lake Michigan, they most likely do not make their way to the actual lake from the ocean because of the presence of locks and dams which make this journey tricky. They Dont Have A Rattle, 10 Of The Most Dangerous Types Of Spiders In North America. It could happen more with climate change. The account to which you refer doesnt have much going for it. No one has reported seeing either fish in Lake Michigan though. The man had to get 60 stitches. Of the five, it is the third-largest, behind Lake Huron, and then the largest, Lake Superior. 2. The shark was dead, but for several days fishermen in the area were. By attacking various fish species in the lake, it can cause a major decrease in local populations. Aug. 30, 2008, 9:30 PM PDT / Source: The Associated Press. So far this year, there have been 28 shark attack bites in U.S. coastal waters, none of them fatal, in Florida (16), New York (6), California (2) and South Carolina (2), according to a database on the Tracking Sharks website. The lake has a surface area of over 58,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Copyright 2022 lakeaccess.org - Sitemap. MU Plus+ Podcasts. However, they are born in safe areas, ensuring they remain safe as they mature. A muskie took a bite of his foot, and the mans knee jerk reaction was to pull his foot back inside the boat, fish and all. What is Lake Michigans most dangerous animal? This was originally published in the Chicago Tribune on Oct. 2, 1978: Q: My son, like many other boys his age, is fascinated by sharks. It was a real shark, but a hoax. I grew up swimming on the white sand beaches of Lake Michigan, and it seems like Ive known the answer to this question since I was in the womb. We called the publishers of the magazine in Montreal and were told by staff member Jack Dean: Oh that. Sharks have prowled our planet's oceans since before we were even a twinkle in the eye of the grand scheme of things. That means the bull shark would have to. Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes in the United States of America. Bull Sharks can and do survive in freshwater for quite a while, and reports have shown them to be several miles upriver from their normal habitat. They can grow up to 33 inches long and have sharp teeth that can and do pierce human skin. One of the biggest shark-related sightings and conspiracy theories of Lake Michigan is the belief that bull sharks live in the Great Lake. BULL SHARK. This is an invasive species, which has a dorsal fin and tail like a shark. Lake Michigan is over 2000 navigational miles from the bull sharks native habit. That fact makes it kind of hard to bite a human leg. What Other Wildlife Is There In Lake Michigan? We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. Or were they planted there. Lake Michigan is home to various aquatic life, including fish, turtles, and waterfowl. There is a lot more to it than that. Lake Michigan Bull Shark. The bull shark is one of the few sharks that have the ability to adapt to freshwater conditions. There are numerous cities and towns located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Home; Listen. Spending time in Lake Michigan doesnt seem to be any more dangerous than most other waterways, maybe even less so than in other parts of the country. They attach themselves to other fish with a sucker-like mouth and feed on their blood, often causing significant damage and even death to their hosts. Is It Possible For A Shark To Swim Backwards? Unlike most other species of shark, the bull sharks kidney cells can recycle salt. Most importantly for this story, though, is that theres photographic evidence of the men in town with their catch. Read. Some of the largest and most well-known cities include Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Grand Rapids. The Missouri and Mississippi rivers regularly dip below 35 degrees for months at a time, but a bull shark prefers tropical waters that stay above 69 degrees. One of the unique things about this shark species is that they can also be found in rivers and lakes, including the Amazon, Brisbane River, and the Ohio River. ACROSS AMERICA If you think sharks are a marvel or menace in the world's oceans only, youre wrong, according to a leading shark expert. It is relatively shallow compared to other great lakes, with an average depth of around 85 meters, and is connected to Lake Huron through the Straits of Mackinac. So, there is no species of shark that is native to Lake Michigan. The shark was dead, but for several days fishermen in the area were uneasy. It can live in both saltwater and freshwater and is found all over the world. It is the largest Lake in Central America and the 19th Largest Lake in the world, with a size of 3,191 square miles. We started this blog as a place to go to when we had questions about buying our first home on the lake. Once again, Bull Sharks are the only species of shark that could withstand the cold temperatures of the Great Lakes. There is a documented case where a bull shark was found as far north as Alton, Illinois. While bull sharks are known to be adaptable and can tolerate freshwater environments, there is no concrete evidence to support their presence in the lake. Dams now keep any wandering sharks from entering the river. Lake Michigan is over 2000 navigational miles from the bull sharks native habit. There havent been any reports of any sharks in Lake Michigan. A bull shark would have to travel up the Mississippi, through a complicated lock system, and while its possible it could have reached Lake Michigan in the past, now there are barriers in place to prevent the spread of invasive species of Asian Carp from reaching the Great Lakes. Are there any alligators in Lake Murray SC? A couple of weeks later, a shark bit a surfer, knocking the 16-year-old off his board and gnawed a 4-inch gash in his leg. Yet these shows and stories spark peoples imaginations that they think that a shark could be in the Great Lakes. Also, there have been no reports of any shark sighting in Lake Superior at all. Bull Sharks Getty Images Again, reports on this one are fuzzy to say the least. Also, their other abilities are much stronger than other species of sharks as well. They will also eat sea turtles and dolphins. However, the odds of being attacked by one of these creatures is very low. We put the magazine together in four days. It is usually caused when pollutants like the contents of septic tanks, manure, and other organic waste are deposited into the lakes. Tanyas write-ups reflect her love for traveling, learning about new cultures, and experiencing local traditions. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. Bull sharks are normally found in coastal areas, lakes, and rivers in these warmer regions. Join our Chicagoland history Facebook group for more from Chicagos past. There are also lots of ducks that can be found in the Great Lake area, such as the scaup and the old-squaw duck. To escape predators, they will often regurgitate the food in their stomachs, thus distracting the predator and giving them some extra time to escape. Snapping turtles do live in and around Lake Michigan and are native to the area. The story has never been proven either way, and become somewhat of an urban legend in Chicago. There are two native species of fish in Lake Michigan that could be mistaken for a shark under the right conditions. On top of that, sharks do need salt water and salt to survive, even the ones that have developed the freshwater adaptation, so they wouldnt be able to survive in the Great Lake forever. So, are there any sharks in Lake Michigan? And other interesting facts. Another dangerous organism that is prevalent in the Great Lakes is Cyanobacteria, more commonly known as blue-green algae. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. These swarms have not been described as very dangerous, as piranhas do not usually attack humans as represented in the media. Earlier this month, an angler fishing in the Florida Keys who was bitten by a 6-foot-long lemon shark as he tried to remove a hook from its mouth was airlifted to a Miami hospital. Shark attacks are rare and fatal attacks are even less common in the United States but the rapid succession of bites off Long Island are an indication that what we are looking at is something of a new normal as sharks swim closer to shore, Bellone said. It is very probable that the Rock Sturgeon, also known as the Lake Sturgeon is mistaken for a shark. The shark was treated like a local celebrity and attracted crowds for days to the Calhoun Fish Market. It is also a well-mixed lake, meaning that water from the surface mixes with water from the bottom, resulting in relatively consistent water temperatures throughout the lake. Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. In this article, we will be discovering whether seeing a Bull Shark or any shark in the Great Lakes is a fact or just a myth. Though there have been many shark sightings in Lake Michigan, Phillip Willink, a well-respected biologist at the local Shedd . Explore what's the truth! In the summer of 2012, a man from Kenora, Ontario, Canada was fishing when he dipped his toes in the water. Things To Keep In Mind When, The 10 Best Shark Documentaries Ever Made, Are There Any Sharks In Myrtle Beach: 9 Common Sharks, Shark Attacks In Hawaii: Do They Happen Near Tourist, Do Bright Colors Attract Sharks? Even though this shark can be found in freshwater habitats, it is believed that the Great Lakes are too cold for a bull shark to live comfortably, even during the summer. To be honest with you,we hate paying for camping. Although, there have been reports of dead sharks being washed up onto the beaches of Lake Erie and Huron in Ontario. They are known for their ability to tolerate both saltwater and freshwater environments, making them one of the few shark species that can live in both marine and freshwater habitats. If you are planning a visit to Lake Michigan, piranhas should not be a concern for you. Are Bull Sharks Really In Lake Michigan Or The Ohio River? It wasnt a bull shark but a blacktip shark instead, but it was a shark non the less. In addition, scientists say that Lake Michigans waters are too cold for sharks and the odds are very slim that one would be able to survive there. But experts note that the species's preference for coastal waters less than a hundred feet (30 meters) deep makes bulls potentially the most dangerous . A scientific journal published just a few months ago revealed a new bull shark nursery near North Carolina. Cyanobacteria is certainly the most insidious of all the Lake Michigan dangers. There isnt much food that a shark could successfully live off on its way to the Great Lake, which would definitely make it hard for any shark to survive there long. You will not find paid product promotions or sponsored content on this site. A lot of people have wondered whether Bull Sharks can live in the Great Lakes. These can cause rashes and blisters on the bodies of swimmers, or cause health issues like breathing difficulties, intestinal problems, vomiting, or dizziness if ingested. Interestingly, Kenora is home to a 36-foot tall roadside statue of a muskie leaping out of the water. In a book I was reading recently there is an account of an attack on a swimmer, George Lawson, in Lake Michigan. That doesnt mean itll never happen, though. Have an idea for Vintage Chicago Tribune? Its a pretty varied diet, although bony fishes are the bull sharks primary source of food. No shark reports have been scientifically documented in the lake. However, they dont see humans as prey and oftentimes their attacks are the result of curiosity or error. Bull Sharks can and do survive in freshwater for quite a while, and reports have shown them to be several miles upriver from their normal habitat. Bull sharks have a nasty reputation, deserved or not, in part because of their size, growing to about 11 feet long and weighing around 700 pounds. The Bull Shark could probably be the only shark to live in the Great Lakes due to its ability to recycle salt through its kidneys and its ability to survive in freshwater environments, but the water temperature does not allow it so. The boy's name is Trent and he is the first recorded case of a bull shark attack at this specific location. In Lake Michigan, as with most shark species, the most active months . Swimming in Lake Michigan is not dangerous because of the aquatic animals that live in the lake, instead it is the water currents that can drag people deep into the lake. Itll often kill any fish it latches onto. There are numerous cities and towns located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Personally, I dont believe it.. This is over 2,000 miles from the Gulf of Mexico and is comparable to a bull shark that once swam 2,500 miles up the Amazon River. As with any outdoor activity, it is important to exercise caution and respect the natural environment when enjoying the lake and its surroundings. Bull Sharks In The Great Lakes - Myth Or Fact? Lake Michigan is filled with many dangerous animals, however it is quite unlikely that sharks are one of them. Bull sharks have been found in some strange places, including Lake Pontchartrain following the disastrous Hurricane Katrina. The Northern Snakehead isnt aggressive toward people but will bite if they feel threatened. He felt a painful tug on his foot, and just like the previous story, jerked his foot back into the boat, pulling a muskie with it. Sign in to access your profile, save content and more. There is a very slim chance a bull shark, in particular, could make it to the shores of Lake Michigan, its extremely unlikely and they wouldnt last very long there! There have been documentaries on the Discovery Channel that talks about sharks swimming in lakes and rivers. Share it with Ron Grossman and Marianne Mather at rgrossman@chicagotribune.com and mmather@chicagotribune.com. At their biggest, bull sharks can stretch to around 13 feet, although its rare for them to grow this big. They also inhabit mangrove swamps and are known to swim upstream in rivers and even travel long distances inland to reach freshwater lakes. These large freshwater turtles have very flexible necks, which they can extend and retract at lightning speed. More about how we earn money as an affiliate. Bull shark sightings have been confirmed in the Mississippi River as far north as Alton, Illinois, but reports of the sharks being found in the Great Lakes are either hearsay or hoaxes, multiple experts told The Associated Press.
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