Sharks spotted near Cement Ship along Santa Cruz County Coast

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A group of sharks were spotted gathered along the Santa Cruz County coast.

The video footage was captured by Specialized Helicopters on Wednesday. A tour group on the helicopter initially spotted the sharks. 

According to Specialized Helicopters, more than 10 great white sharks were spotted near the Cement Ship, and in the Capitola area. All of the sharks were about 7-10'.

The sharks were very easy to see thanks to clear water conditions.  

Shark experts are calling the sightings rare. They say El Nino's warmer than average water, paired with an abundant food supply, could be why sharks are in the area. 

As SkyFox flew over the area Tuesday afternoon it captured an unusual amount of marine activity. Within an hour timeframe our crew saw a pod of dolphins, mama whale and calf, sea lions snacking on sardines and sea otters relaxing in kelp. 

Mobile app users can watch the video here. 

 

This isn't the first time Specialized Helicopters has captured footage of sharks at the Cement Ship.

Last June, whale watching captain Giancarlo Thomae was on the helicopter when he counted 15 great white sharks. Out of an abundance of caution, state park officials posted warning signs and canceled swimming for a junior lifeguard competition after a lifeguard spotted a shark 20 yards off shore. At this point, it's unclear if the same precautions will be implemented due to Wednesday's sighting.

We have a KTVU crew talking with shark experts today. We'll be updating this story as we gather more details.