Dogfish Sharks Wash Up On Absecon Island Beaches

ABSECON ISLAND, N.J. — The bodies of several spiny dogfish sharks washed up on beaches across Absecon Island last weekend. The reason so many washed up is unknown.

"We’re not entirely sure what happened, but we think that possibly heavy winds and some flooding Friday could have pushed the dogfish up into marshes, said NJ Department of Environmental Protection Spokesman Larry Hajna. "As it recedes, the dogfish die and then the next tide comes in and brings the dogfish out and washes them up on the beach."

The dogfish spanned from Brigantine to Longport, according to The Press of Atlantic City. Hajna told Patch he did not have a precise number for how many washed up.

Hajna said this is an ordinary part of nature and not cause for concern. A week earlier, thousands of dead menhaden were found near docks in boats in Oceanport Creek, Parker's Creek and Blackberry Creek in Oceanport.