Does Hilton Head Island have an influx of sharks?

Beaufort County This Week

STORY 1

From the Island Packet

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and other partners have acquired more than 10,000 acres in Jasper and Hampton counties.

The 10,570 acres will be used to protect critical plant and animal habitats while also expanding public recreation opportunities in the Lowcountry. The SCDNR said that there are opportunities for hiking, bird watching, nature photography, hunting and fishing on this new property.

The SCDNR said that the $50 million purchase of the Buckfield and Slater properties establishes what will be known as Coosawhatchie Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area (WMA).

In total, 10,570 acres are protected and make up the property, with an additional 1,992 acres pending, the SCDNR said. Another 13,100 acres of adjoining and nearby land is already protected by public and private entities.

Story 2

From the Island Packet

Beyond a stretch of beach and into the surf, fear and fascination lie below Hilton Head Island waters. Sometimes it’s a fin poking from the ocean’s surface. Other times, diving birds alert to what’s submerged. This summer, three shark bites were reported on the island in July and most recently, there was a call to clear Palmetto Dunes’ waters as a result of the feared fish. Cell phone photos and video footage shared across social media platforms have perpetuated the belief that shark sightings and attacks on Hilton Head are happening more frequently. It’s raised the question: are there more sharks stalking the island’s surf?

Fishermen out on the sea and scientists buried in research say there are more sharks in these waters, but it’s more nuanced than that. The rise in population indicates healthy fisheries that took decades to rebuild. This shouldn’t stoke panic in beachgoers, experts say. Instead, it’s vital to learn how to live among them because when wading into the island’s surf, bumping into the fish is a risk any swimmer takes.

Story 3

From the Island Packet

If you haven’t seen the free kids tickets around town, once again, a real circus under the big top is coming to Beaufort.

The Zerbini Family Circus will pitch its tents at the vacant lot at 12 Sammie Lane in Beaufort from Monday, Sept. 23 through Sunday, Sept. 29. The circus is sponsored by Beaufort Family Entertainment.

Showtimes for the 90-minute performances are 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5 and 7 p.m. Friday; 4 and 6 p.m., Saturday; and 3 p.m. Sunday. Seating is general admission on bleacher seats. Doors open one hour before the show.

The Circus accepts cash and credit cards. Limited advance tickets can be purchased at zerbinifamilycircus.com or at the entrance while seats are available. Online ticket sales are limited and end at noon the day of the show. Parking fee is $2 per vehicle.

Tickets are $15 per adult online and $20 at the box office. Each paid adult can bring one kid free with a coupon in the comments section on the Facebook page. The coupon is good for admission for one child, ages 4–12. You must have the ticket in hand. Kids 3 and younger are free and do not need a ticket. Additional children cost $10 per child.