RIP: Monterey Bay Aquarium Great White Shark Dies Minutes After Being Returned to Ocean; Staff 'Surprised And Saddened', 'Distressed and Puzzled'

MONTEREY, California -- The Monterey Bay Aquarium is deeply saddened to announce the death of the young great white shark released nine days ago off the coast of southern California.

"This is a very difficult day for all of us, and for everyone who saw and cared about this animal," said Jon Hoech, the aquarium's director of husbandry. "Based on the shark's behavior and condition prior to release, we had every confidence that he'd do well back in the wild. Unfortunately, that's not how things turned out. We're surprised and saddened by the outcome."

The 4-foot, 10-inch, 52-pound shark, was transported south to Goleta (Santa Barbara County) by the aquarium's animal care staff on October 25 and released that afternoon. He appeared to be doing well before the release team lost sight of him as he swam away, Hoech said. According to data from the electronic tracking tag, he died minutes after being released.

The electronic tag he carried popped free on Saturday, October 29; began transmitting its stored data on Sunday, October 30; and was recovered that afternoon. It was delivered to the aquarium's white shark team on Tuesday, November 1 for analysis.

"Our animal care staff is unrivaled in its knowledge of young great white sharks," said Jim Hekkers, the aquarium's managing director. "I'm proud of the passion and dedication they demonstrate each day. This is a difficult time for all of us."

The decision to release the shark after 55 days on exhibit was based on changes in how well he was navigating in the exhibit, said aquarium staff veterinarian Dr. Mike Murray – changes that, over time, could result in abrasions that might become a source of infection.

This was not the first time a great white shark on exhibit at the aquarium has experienced "navigation" problems. Back in February 2005, the aquarium released its great white shortly after UnderwaterTimes.com and the Pelagic Shark Research Foundation published exclusive pictures showing the shark with a severely abraded nose. Again in January 2007, the aquarium had to release its captive great white shark citing "snout abrasions" and "logistical challenges" in keeping the wild animal.

"Our first concern is always the health and well-being of the animals under our care," he said. "It became clear that it was time to release him."

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