52. While theyre tolerant of being touched, tagged, or handled (compared to other shark species), theyre ranked as the fourth highest in numbers of bites on humans. Frequently it is the most common shark (especially young) in clear-water cuts and along beaches in Florida and the Bahamas. Although shark attacks in Florida are more common, theyre still rare. Guests can get up close and personal with one of the Florida Keys most common shark-the Nurse Shark. They tend to be one of the most aggressive species of shark, due to their extremely high testosterone levels, fierce territorial behavior, and a zero-tolerance policy towards any kind of provocation. Some travel closer to shore at different times of the day or year. Sharks themselves are fascinating, awe-inspiring creatures. Blacktip sharks areresponsible for 35 attackssince theyve been recorded, none of which were fatal. Blue sharks are known to school up and hunt in packs, driving schools of fish into balls that they can then eat at their leisure. They grow to an average of ten feet (3 meters), but have the potential to grow further, and have slender bodies. It is in South and Central America that their species is reportedly vulnerable. Theyre distributed globally in temperate and tropical waters, but thelargest concentration of sandbar sharks is in the western Atlantic Ocean. Each year in the wild, there are fewer than 80 shark bites each year. Sharks release cortisol when stressed (like fighting on a line). Each year, over 100 million sharks are caught specifically for their fins. As the name suggests, the Great Hammerhead Sharks are the largest members of the Hammerhead Shark family. Endemic to the Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific Ocean, the Sandbar Sharks have been named after the sandy bays and estuaries they are mostly found on. So, it seems you have a chance to see any one of those types of sharks when snorkeling in the Florida Keys! While learning about this unique species, guests can learn a little bit more about some of the outlandish myths surrounding sharks and what we can do to help and protect these important animals. Bone Island Divers & Sandbar Charters Key West. The Keys are divided into 5 regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine, the Lower Keys, and Key West. For those who like statistics, youre 45,000 times more likely to die from a car accident than from a shark attack. Blacknose sharks are slender with a long snout, which helps them move quickly through the water. 2. Though relatively slow and sluggish, it can be dangerous to humans if aggravated. (Types, Attacks & Visitors Guide), Are There Sharks in Boca Raton, Florida? Blacktip shark (Carcharhinus limbatus) bears a distinctive black tip on most fins except its anal fin. Shark finning, as described above, is driven by the demand for shark fin soup. Bull sharks generally grow to between eight and nine feet (2.7 meters) in length and can weigh upwards of 800 pounds (363 kilograms). To put it into perspective, visitors to the Florida Keys are far more likely to drown or suffer other water-related injuries than encounter a shark. I have been fascinated by our natural world and am here to share that wonder with you. Lemon Sharks are a big shark species that lives primarily in inshore shallow waters. Atlantic great whites commonly migrate between Maine and the Gulf of Mexico in search of food and breeding grounds. Four shark attacks have occurred in the Florida Keys in 2022 leading up to September. While their upper teeth are serrated and triangular in shape, the lower ones are smooth-edged, narrow, and erect. Description The Great Hammerhead Sharks have a streamlined body with their head extended into a cephalofoil, which is typical of all the members of the hammerhead shark family. Since the Keys are a tourist hotspot, this leads to increased shark attack numbers compared to other coastal and island locations. Another attack occurred in June 2022 on Summerland Key, which sent a 35-year-old to a hospital for multiple surgeries to repair their leg. Unlike most shark species that inhabit saltwater, these sharks are mostly found in freshwater, traveling to saltwater bodies often during reproduction. Shark attacks are considered very rare incidents. 1-305-393-7448 --- captainronbrack@bellsouth.net. A bull shark was suspected to be responsible for the attack. Key Largo has a number of state and national parks and is home to the only living coral reef system in the continental US, known as Floridas Coral Reef. As fish stocks dwindle due to a variety of factors, shark populations become unsustainable. Silky Shark (Carcharhinus falciformis), 15. The sandbar shark gets its common name from the sandy and muddy flats, bays and estuaries in which its commonly found. They also practice cannibalism while in the womb, like some other species of shark. The teeth of these sharks are most remarkable; they are sharp, with their tip pointing sideways. The following species are among the most common. Jaws was the movie that really started the wave of shark terror, but subsequent movies have continued to terrify audiences since. That's not to say the Keys are without incident. As stated, Florida waters are home to well over forty species of sharks. Overfishing of shark prey species limits their food supply. These sharks also have a distinctive first dorsal fin, which is very tall, shaped almost like a sickle. Dusky Shark (Carcharhinus obscurus) Body length - 3.2 meters (10 feet) Weight - 160-180 kilograms Diet - carnivore Lifespan - about 30 years Conservation status - endangered They are capable of generating some of the highest suction forces of any invertebrate species. In the vast majority of attacks, the shark bites once, and then it leaves. There are numerous factors that cause this, however, one of the biggest contributors is overfishing. The diet of a sandbar shark typically consists of small bony fishes like menhaden, croaker, snapper, mojarras, as well as crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp. They can be spotted swimming at the surface when hunting for food. It is brown or gray in color with a white underside. Great whites are known to grow over 20 feet (6 meters) in length and are recognized as the most deadly for humans. The Silky Sharks are a species of Requiem Sharks that are named after the unusually smooth texture of their skin. This area includes a series of small islands. Often known as Bronze whales or Black whalers, the Dusky Sharks are the largest species of Requiem Sharks that are also known for their seasonal migrations. It commonly enters estuarine waters and often ventures into freshwater areas, but does not penetrate as far up rivers as the bull shark. It does not matter if the animal isnt injured during the capture and release process, nor does it matter if the animal recovers and swims away seeming like its fine. They feed mostly at night on spiny lobsters and other crustaceans, small stingrays, sea urchins, squid and bony fishes. You can identify them by their stout body shape and tell-tale black marking on the tips of their pectoral and dorsal fins. It eats mainly bony fish but will also eat shrimps, crabs and other small sharks. It is located north of, and connected to, U.S. 1 (or the Overseas Highway) at approximately mile marker 11.5, between the Saddlebunch Keys and Big Coppitt Key. When can you see them in Florida? They can grow over 16 feet (5 meters) in length and prefer tropical and subtropical climates. Types of Sharks Found in Key West The most common type of shark in Key West is the nocturnal, docile nurse shark. In 2020, there were 39 provoked bites and 57 unprovoked bites. Exploratory bites occur when a shark is testing to see whether you are food or not, likely because of a case of mistaken identity. The favorite prey for many sharks is sea turtles, but this is a rare treat. They only have 5 non-fatal attacks on record as of 2022. Not much is known about the species aside from their feeding habits and massive size of over 30 feet (9 meters). How common are Sarasota shark attacks? Dusky Sharks are a large and powerful shark species that frequent the waters off the coast of Florida. As an example, the resurgence of seal populations in New England has resulted in a resurgence in great white populations thanks to available food. Their large size makes them capable of a powerful bite, but theyre not considered a threat to humans because of their relatively calm behavior. Spinner sharks prefer shallow water, and a favorite strategy when feeding on schools of fish is to attack from below, spinning while breaching out of the water. While a bull shark can display caution when around divers, they can become almost instantly aggressive, especially when any food source is present in their surroundings. They typically reach around ten feet (3 meters) in length. Most of the island chain is in Monroe County, with a small portion in Miami-Dade County. Mako Sharks are a large and impressive pelagic shark species. While 9 out of the 15 species are common in the state, the remaining six are rarely seen. Being shaped like a sickle, their first dorsal fin is the most identifiable feature of their body. Most of their diet consists of squid, but they also eat cuttlefish, bony fish, and crustaceans. Sharks touch some part of our brains that weve forgotten about as we became more and more civilized. They typically form groups with sharks of similar size. The reef shark is a sub-tropic species that lives primarily worldwide on reef ecosystems. The Florida Keys holds the largest number of sharks globally, making it a top spot for shark viewing in Florida. When they move through a school of fish, they can whip their tail fast enough to cut fish in two or paralyze the prey theyre after. The blacktip is a valuable commercial species with marketable flesh, hide, fins, and liver. Check Out These 3 Types Of Scorpions In Florida complete with Facts, Tips, Infographics, and more! All of the sharks seen off the Keys in the past year have been older juveniles or sub-adult sharks in the 10-14 foot range. read more, Team Mitchell caught three nice reds on light tackle in the shallows of the Glades. From a sharks point of view, a person in the water looks much like a seal or turtle (especially when on a surfboard). Nurse sharks arevery common in shallow Florida Keys waters. They have the widest selection of prey of any shark species and are known for eating quite literally everything. Survival rates vary, with some species like bull sharks having high survival rates of 97%, while others like hammerheads die at a rate of between 40-70%. Florida is home to more than forty species of shark, but most of them arent considered real threats to people. 2. Their brilliant coloration quickly fades to a dull grey when they die. This powerful shark species can grow to lengths of over 10 feet and have been known to weigh as much as 1,000 pounds. Ocean pollution and climate change are also endangering shark populations. Florida Keys. Rays, fish, turtles, other sharks, sea birds, squid, dolphins, and crustaceans are all on the menu. Make sure to book your tarpon charters in advance. You May Also Like: There Are 10 Common Sharks In Hawaii That You Should Know About with Photos, Infographics, Facts, and more! When can you see them in Florida? If youve ever swum in the ocean, youve likely been incredibly close to sharks. They prefer shallow waters and are often seen on the flats, reefs, and even venturing into fresh waters at times. Content Writer specializing in product recommendations and research breakdowns. How Much Does it Cost to Dive with Sharks in Florida? (305) 395-9140. The United States leads the world in shark bites annually, with Florida being the state with the most incidents. Great Hammerhead Shark Sphyrna mokarran. Background of the shark research in the Florida Keys. Snorkeling at Looe Key in the Florida Keys: Spot the shark! It leads to Key West, which is the last stop on the island chain. TheInternational Shark Attack Filehas recorded just17 shark attacks in Monroe Countyin modern history as of October 2022. Night tarpon and shark fishing specialist. This shark accounts for about 60 percent of the states commercial landings. The ocean is a sharks natural habitat, so this creature can be found in the waters of Key West. Their eyes and mouth are present on the lower side of their cephalofoil. Although theyre not considered dangerous, spinner sharks can pose a threat due to their speed. As they zip through schools of fish to feed, they jump out of the water and spin several times in the air. The Dusky Sharks are found in Florida from late June to early September. The 5 types of sea turtles in the Florida Keys are the Loggerhead, Green, Hawksbill, Leatherback and Kemp's Ridley. You will certainly not encounter these species though, as they inhabit the deep ocean where light doesnt reach. But before you go running back to shore with the Jaws theme song playing in your head, slow down and learn about the sharks of Key West and how to stay safe while having fun. They have large, circular eyes with a snout that is short yet rounded. They tend to follow ships or show up where people are diving due to their curiosity. Their undersides are white. Namely, they can come to the surface and gulp down air to help them with their buoyancy. The Keys are home to numerous distinctive animal and plant species, many of which cannot be found in any other region of the United . Unprovoked bites are when the shark bites without known provocation. These sharks are closely related to the Silky as well as the Dusky Sharks and belong to the same family of Requiem Sharks. Press Esc to cancel. It can grow to 11 feet, but most do not exceed 9 feet, weighing over 200 pounds. Some remain throughout the year. | Terms & Conditions. When meat cant be readily found, the lemon shark will feed on mollusks and crustaceans. Shark sightings around some of Destin's most popular attractions, such as Crab Island, aren't very common. When can you see them in Florida? Tiger sharks are identified by the tiger stripes you can visibly see on their sides. Many of these Florida Keys sharks are inshore species. The Nurse Sharks are fairly common in Florida and can be found here throughout the year. 7 Ways You Can Help Save the Great White Shark from Extinction. Blacktip sharks grow to around five feet (1.5 meters) in length and prefer brackish, coastal waters. As something that can treat us as prey, we innately fear sharks. University of West Florida Marine Biology graduate. Description The Dusky Sharks have a long and slender, streamlined body with a snout that is broad and rounded in contrast, growing as wide as their mouth. Keys Shark Diving is the best way to see sharks up close and personal in the Florida Keys. Between the months of January and June, you can see large populations of Bull Sharks in Florida. These bites are broken down into provoked and unprovoked bites. View our ADA Accessibility Policy. Named for their yellowish-brown color, lemon sharks are found in coastal inshore waters along the east coast of the US down to southern Brazil. These attacks happen extremely rarely, though its always safer to exit the water than share it with a 15-foot (4.5 meters) indiscriminate feeding machine. Theyre named for the black coloring they have on the tips of their fins. Mercury and other chemicals in the water travel up the food chain to sharks, making them sick and infertile. In fact, shark bites are incredibly rare. Theyre quite shy and typically swim away when they encounter humans. They have two barbels over their mouth, large rounded fins, and are generally brownish overall. The rest of the shark isnt desirable, so the animal is thrown back into the water, without its fins, alive. Lemon Shark Lemon sharks get their name from their pale yellow coloring and are one of the species that is most abundant in the Florida Keys, as these are their native waters. Nurse sharks typically grow to be around ten feet (3 meters) in length. Bull sharks are very large. The blacktip is thought to be the culprit in most hit and run attacks on humans. Nurse sharks are known as almost acting like puppies sometimes thanks to their docile nature. Sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae) is an inshore species, common in bays and estuaries. The spinner shark and blacktip are very similar. Cocoa Beach is one of the best places to go shark watching. Sharks are caught for both commercial and recreational purposes. On average, a shark dive is around $150 per person. There are 93 non-fatal and 23 fatal bull shark attacks recorded in history. Blacktips are principally pelagic but often come inshore in large schools, particularly in association with Spanish mackerel. The Seven Mile Bridge that connects the Florida Keys is one of the longest bridges in the world and home to an exotic ecosystem unlike any other. Shark Species. For information about how to share the water with sharks, check out this post by Florida Fish and Wildlife. Duskies eat pretty much everything, from fish and rays to crustaceans and even garbage. They frequently follow traveling schools of fish down beaches and can gather in huge numbers during mating seasons like in the video here. As one of the more aggressive shark species, the Mako shark lives and stays in the deeper pelagic waters off of Florida, in most cases being found miles from shore. Come Dive with Us! You May Also Like: Learn What Is Poaching And Why Is It Practiced Including Its Effects with Infographics, Photos, Facts and more! Theyre one of the few species of sharks that lie on the seabed in place. Black Tips normally live among shallow reef systems and backcountry flats around the state of Florida. One of themost recent attacksoccurred in September, when a scuba diver in Marathon was bitten by a shark at a depth of about 70 ft near the reef line. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, About | Privacy Policy |Contact | Advertise, Great Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna mokarran), Caribbean Reef Shark (Carcharhinus perezi), Smooth Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna zygaena), Scalloped Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna lewini). They can reach lengths up to 13 ft and weigh up to 700 pounds! Unfortunately, the trend for all sharks is not going in that positive direction. Lemon Shark Lemon Sharks have a slight yellow color which is where they get their name from. Shark attacks and bites are incredibly rare, with most unnoticed interactions being the shark looking at you and leaving. Tiger sharks are one of the larger shark species; the largest individuals are believed to exceed 18-feet and 2000 pounds. Shark finning is banned by many countries due to ecological and ethical reasons. 1. Lemon sharks spend time in groups and search out fish in the warm, shallow waters they call home. eDNA sampling is done by collecting water, pumping it through a filter, and isolating the DNA found within the sample. Tiger sharks are the second most deadly for humans, just behind the great white in the number of fatal attacks on people. Some of their natural food sources include sea turtles, birds, a large variety of fish species, squid and even dolphins and whales. Stingrays and fish are hammerheads favorite prey items. Description The Caribbean Reef Sharks have a bulky, streamlined body that is colored greyish-brown on the upper side and yellowish-white on the underside. These sharks are known by many different names such as Sickle shark, Ridgeback shark, Blackspot shark, Great whaler shark, Olive shark, etc. This equipment is used to attract species in the area with the bait and capture footage of them. Their anal fin, as well as the lower lobe of their caudal fin, is covered in a dusky shade. Essentially, males and females have different head shapes, with males having a distinct bulge while females heads are more rounded. Often referred to as Thickskin shark or Brown shark, these sharks are one of the largest coastal shark species. For commercial reasons, sharks are caught for their meat, skiing, teeth, fins, and organs. Silky sharks have smooth grey skin, grow to over eight feet (2.4 meters) in length, and spend most of their time in deep offshore waters. The color of their skin ranges from blue to green, with their underbelly being light-yellow. MIAMI Three shark encounters have occurred this month Florida, including two in the Florida Keys, sparking concerns from experts ahead of a busy Memorial Day weekend when millions are expected to flock to the state's beaches."People are spending much more time in the water and sharks are present in our coastal waters year-round, increasing the risk that sharks and people might find . We conduct research at Marine Lab to determine the distribution and abundance of sharks, skates and rays in the Northern Florida Keys. Key West is known for its tropical resorts, the Key West Aquarium, and fun water sports activities. Description The Smooth Hammerhead Sharks have a typical hammer-like head but lack the indentation in the middle, which is why they are called smooth. Florida And Great White Sharks Depending on the type of hammerhead shark you encounter, their size can range from nine to twenty feet in length. In Florida, most of them are found around the Florida Keys and South Florida, but theyre known to wander northward in search of food. They can be identified further by their distinct sickle-shaped tail and large eyes. Most everyone knows that the hammerhead shark earned its name for the hammerhead shape their heads. They spend a lot of time in intertidal zones, bays, and estuaries, preferring the shallow nearshore waters to deeper offshore areas. Theyre one of the largest coastal sharks in the world, growing to around eight feet (2.4 meters) in length and very stocky. However, these are not the predominant shark species that a person is likely to come across in Florida waters. Nurse sharks are opportunistic feeds that wait on small fish and rays to wander too close. Speaking of great whites, theyre also known to migrate around Florida and into the Gulf of Mexico. The Florida record is 991 pounds. Since theyre found in shallow waters, lemon sharks can be encountered by swimmers, divers, and surfers. As a Florida fisherman and former shark fisherman, I would discourage others from targeting sharks for fun. Proximity to the breeding grounds of larger Sharks like Bull and Mako round out the list of reasons why the fishing here is so good. You can find 2020 shark bite statistics here. But if youre planning a trip to the Florida Keys, you might be wondering: Are there sharks in the Florida Keys? Large bull sharks are responsible for the vast majority of nearshore shark bites inflicted on humans. When can you see them in Florida? Sometimes theyre seen in groups within their defined home range. yes, but there aren't many sharks in The Florida Keys.. a few types of sharks that live there is the mako shark (shortfin) also known as mackerel shark, the nurse shark, hammerhead shark and . Camper, hiker, paddler, cyclist, explorer, storyteller. Ocean First Institute conducts shark research at Marine Lab in the Florida Keys. Our educational programming, research and conservation projects inspire young minds to explore marine science and innovate new ways to understand and protect the ocean. We are the biggest threat to sharks. Oceanic Whitetip Shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), 4 Other Florida Shark Species Youll Find, Historical Change in Sharks Living in Florida Waters. These sharks display sexual dimorphism in the shape of their head, with the adult females possessing a more broadly rounded head than their male counterparts. Med XXL Sizes along with iced water & sports drinks. Theyre also exceptionally heavy for their sizes, with makos averaging ten feet (3 meters) in length at 300 pounds (136 kilograms), with fourteen-foot (4.2 meters), 1,200-pound (544 kilograms) specimens being caught. They lack the dorsal ridge that is usually present between the two dorsal fins. Theyre common residents in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. These sharks display sexual dimorphism, wherein the males mature sexually when they are a year younger than their female counterparts and are smaller in size than the latter. From shore, spinners, blacktips, and bull sharks are the common targets. Its important to stress that shark bites are extremely, extremely rare, and even when they happen are not typically fatal. Their ability to tolerate freshwater is rather unique to sharks. It has a distinctive flattened head extending to hammer-like lobes on each side. Blacktip, Lemon, Hammerhead, Bonnet Head, and Bull Sharks are just to name a few. Description The Scalloped Hammerheads have a medium-sized body with greyish upperparts and white underparts. Both species prefer offshore habitats and deeper waters, primarily feeding on bony fish like tuna and cephalopods like squid. Theyre mainly concentrated in Key West compared to the other Keys. All the Shark species that are found in Florida can broadly be divided into two different groups, based on the probability of their occurrence in the state. Some, like the spinner shark and blacktip shark, are even kind of cute. It has a very noticeable dusky smudge or moustache on the tip of its snout, which is more prominent when young. Spinner sharks are afast-swimmingspecies that inhabit temperate and tropical nearshore waters. Please contact us for additional information regarding shark tours for the Key West Aquarium. Lemon sharks mainly feed on small prey that arent able to put up much of a fight. BRUVS . Lets take a closer look at each of theseFlorida Keys sharksand how likely you are to spot one while in the Keys! You can spot the Silky Sharks in Florida in the months of June, July, and August. As travelers approach the Seven Mile Bridge, they enter the Lower Keys. These fish roam the flats and backcountry of the Florida Keys all year round. There are many different shark species that inhabit Florida coastal waters. Bull Sharks are big, powerful sharks that are often found in packs known to hunt and swim together. Fishing from boats, many fishermen target offshore species like mako sharks and threshers. These sharks average about 6 ft in length and can reach up to 150 pounds. Bull sharks are one of the most dangerous shark species in the world. Scuba & Snorkelling Shark Diving. Varying dramatically in size, Sharks are the cartilaginous fish belonging to the subclass of elasmobranch fish. Their counter-shaded coloration helps them remain undetected by their prey. Their name comes from a black marking they have on their nose, which typically fades as they get older. Heres a list of the sharks you can see with Keys Shark Diving. They have a sandy-yellow coloration that helps them blend in while cruising above the bottom and grow to around eleven feet (3.3 meters) in length. BRUVS can often help find local species, identify their diversity and abundances, and observe behavior, among other things. The unique structure of their teeth helps them to slice through anything that comes into their mouth, be it bones, flesh, or even a hardened turtle shell. In most interactions humans have with sharks, the person doesnt even realize anything happened. They average around ten feet (3 meters) in length but can grow to over thirteen feet (4 meters). They feed on a wide variety of food sources, including primarily other small fish species, crabs, and other small marine life. This, combined with them traveling great distances towards sensed-out food sources is one of the reasons why theyre a threat to ship and plane wreck survivors. Adult blacktip sharks reach an average length of 5 ft and weigh about 40 pounds. The Mako shark feeds primarily on fish, other sharks and other larger prey. The reduction of shark populations has ripple effects throughout the entire food chain. Ron Brack a Pirate For Hire. The Tiger Sharks can be seen in Florida from December to July. Additional information Although the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) does not have enough data on this shark species, their population is considered to be fairly common in the Bahamas and the United States. Their habitat consists of continental shelves near sandy and coral bottoms in tropical and warm temperate waters. The Florida Keys are a coral cay archipelago of around 200 coral islands, located off the Southern tip of Florida. These creatures are nocturnal and most active at night. This shark species is frequently seen across the Caribbean, especially within South Florida, the Bahamas and other tropical island and reef environments. Several types ofFlorida Keys sharkscan be found inshore. They prefer to be in shallow water, so snorkelers or even swimmers could run across them. Nurse sharks are one of the most common sharks that live in Florida Keys waters. Theyre accountable for about 20% of all shark attacks that have occurred in Florida. In some places, bull sharks use rivers as breeding grounds. Do Sharks Eat Humans? Its color ranges from a pale olive-gray above to whitish below. These sedentary elasmobranch fish are robust in nature and handle captures and tagging surprisingly well. The Caribbean Reef Sharks are commonly spotted in Florida throughout the summer months. Among sharks, this behavior is unique. The most common type of shark in Key West is the nocturnal, docile nurse shark. You can find both shortfin and longfin mako sharks off the coast of Florida. Blacktip sharks are medium-sized sharks that range from dark gray to brown in color with white underbellies. Among the species that grow to Description The Blacktip Sharks have a long, pointed snout with a streamlined body and eyes that seem small for them. Our goal is to assess the distribution and abundance of elasmobranch species (sharks, skates, rays) in the Northern Florida Keys, using two main non-invasive methodologies: Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS) and Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. These sharks have a large, bulky body that is flatter in shape than most of the shark species. You can identify them by their aggressive attitude, signature white marking on their dorsal fin, and stocky body with almost cartoonishly large fins. These are all names of sharks I heard while on the Looe Key snorkeling boat. Some of the most common shark species that live in the Florida Keys waters include: Still, shark attacks in the Florida Keys are quite rare there have only been 17 confirmed attacks in modern history, most of which were not fatal. The Bull Sharks are a species of Requiem Sharks that are known by different names throughout the world; in Africa, they are called the Zambezi sharks, while in Nicaragua, they are known as Lake Nicaragua sharks. Theyre some of the most easily identified sharks thanks to their flat, hammer-shaped heads.Most species grow to around nine feet (2.7 meters), but great hammerheads have been found to grow to 20 feet (6 meters) and average around 14 feet (4.3 meters) in length. Fishing guides that specialize in shark fishing out of Key West, Florida. Because of their poor eyesight, lemon sharks depend on the magnetic sensor in their nose which allows them to attract prey and to find others to mate with. You can spot the Sandbar Sharks in Florida between the months of May to August. This impressive shark species averages anywhere from around 4 7 and can weigh in at 500 pounds. Blacktip sharks are often confused with spinner sharks because they have similar markings and feeding behaviors. Tiger sharks are the second-largest predatory fish in the ocean and are powerful swimmers that can turn on the speed when necessary. Typically, the shark bites, then realizes you arent food and lets go. There is no fixed time of the year when you can spot the Bonnethead Sharks in Florida. Hawaii came in second place with just six attacks. Populations of bonnetheads in the Gulf of Mexico make them one of the most common sharks youll encounter. In many cases, sharks are caught by fishing boats, brought aboard, and have their fins sliced off while still alive. Tigers are large, heavy-bodied sharks that have stripes coming down their sides and across their fins, true to their Tiger name. Bonnetheads prefer shallow water and frequently are found in estuaries, surf zones, and shallow grass flats. Youre most likely to the Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks in Florida in the months of July and August. It is arguably the best location for shark spotting and you may see the likes of silky sharks, dusky sharks, and black tips too. They're especially common in south Florida waters, the Florida Keys, and the West Indies. Not only are sharks finding it harder to grow in number, but they also have reproductive problems, habitat issues, and shorter life spans. The teeth of the Great Hammerhead Sharks are strongly serrated and have a triangular shape. When can you see them in Florida? The islands are stringed together by the famous Overseas Highway, which is a little over 110 miles long and has 42 bridges. The species is listed as critically endangered. Due to a smaller mouth size though, they arent considered major threats even in the event of an attack. They have 9 non-fatal attacks on record, some of which are a result of provocation. Description The Smalltooth Sawfish have brownish or bluish-grey upperparts with a white below. Theyre the only shark known to be omnivorous in this way. Its common for them to be found lying on the bottom in large groups. Some travel closer to shore at different times of the day or year. Theyre known for using their tail as a weapon. It migrates long distances and matures at about 6 feet in length but can reach a maximum length of nearly 8 feet. They can sniff or sense out food sources from incredibly far away and are known for congregating in large numbers on bait balls. Experts caution sea-goers to beware of sharks 6 feet or longer due to the damage they can cause in a single bite. However, it is the shape of their cephalofoil that sets these sharks apart from the rest of the hammerhead sharks, which has an almost straight front margin and takes up about 25% of their body length. Basking sharks, another endangered filter feeder that can be mistaken for great whites, are also found off the Florida coast. Valued in the Caribbean for its high quality hide, the nurse shark is considered a nuisance species in most North American longline fisheries with fins and meat of little value. However, these are not the predominant shark species that a person is likely to come across in Florida waters. Adults feed on small fish and crustaceans. Description A distinguishing difference between the Whale Shark and the other species of sharks is the position of their mouth. However,Florida experiences the most shark attacks than any other state in the US. I've been working with the National Wildlife Federation for the past five years. Thresher sharks stand out thanks to their elongated, whip-like tail that identifies them from other species. The shark then dies, as it can no longer swim. Hands down our private charter was the best part of our Key West vacation, can't recommend Captain Lisa and CJ from B. Reef shark, blacktip shark, nurse shark. Different species respond differently to the buildup of stress hormones. This means that if you click on some of the links in our posts, we may earn a commission. With a highly diverse diet, these sharks are one of the most dangerous inhabitants of the oceans. Spinner shark (Carcharhinus brevipinna) is a large and slender, fast-swimming shark that often leaps spinning out of the water. Various factors go into this price, including whether photography or videos are included. Bull sharks are a unique species because theyre found in saltwater and freshwater. Loves learning new techniques and facts about outdoor activities and wildlife. These sharks use their T-shaped heads to hone in and track down prey from long distances. Among the species that grow to this size and have been known to attack humans are bull sharks, tiger sharks and great white sharks. Makos are known to be dangerous to humans, but most attacks are the result of a provoked fish being brought onto the deck of a boat that had hooked it while fishing. Theyre found everywhere from the coastline to the pelagic zone of the continental shelf. As one of the most abundant shark species native to Florida waters, they are often seen and encountered in shallow backcountry flats, shallow inshore water and along the edge of the Gulfstream waters. Blue sharks get their name from the deep blue color covering the top of their body that helps them blend in with the deep blue water they inhabit. If you plan on going to Florida, its definitely worth knowing what sharks are in the water. The Key West Aquarium is part of the Historic Tours of America eNewsletter. When swimming, remember the ocean is where sharks live. Its home to the third largest barrier reef in the world with a thriving marine ecosystem that makes for exciting snorkeling adventures. The mouth is filled with rows of small, serrated teeth for crushing hard-shelled prey. A10-year-old boy was bitten by a sharkin August 2022 while snorkeling in a shallow reef in Looe Key. The Tiger Sharks can be seen in Florida from December to July. Some sharks are hit harder than others because of shark finning. As their biggest threat, we need to improve our stewardship of shark populations. Adult spinner sharks are usually around 6.5 ft in length, but larger individuals can reach up to 9 ft. From north to south, these points include: Some of the most common attractions and activities locals and visitors of the Keys enjoy include kayaking, boating, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Hammers are strong fast sharks and can be found in large numbers depending on which species of shark. As their name implies, the reef shark is an agile and fast shark that lives among shallow and deep reef environments that are native to the Florida Keys. Despite being frequent by-catch for long-line fishermen, blue sharks have extremely high reproductive rates. A 35-year-old man was reportedly . Our goal is to assess the distribution and abundance of elasmobranch species (sharks, skates, rays) in the Northern Florida Keys, using two main non-invasive methodologies: Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS) and Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling. Why We Love This Place for Shark Watching in Florida. They have the characteristic saw-like toothed rostrum attached to the front of their head. They spend all of their time in the typically barren open ocean, so they conserve energy in their movement and eat any time they can. These sharks are found in abundance in the Americas. . One hypothesis that researchers have is that the sharks are passing by the Keys as they migrate into the Gulf and are spending time feeding on large fish, like amberjack, which spawn offshore during the spring. A 35-year-old man fishing off a dock in Summerland Key, an island in the Florida Keys, was . Cocoa Beach. Tigers are also protected from harvest in Florida state waters. Editor-in-Chief at Outforia, Inspired by wild adventures. These sharks are fairly timid, but can become aggressive if approached. In fact, shark bites are incredibly rare. However, they are seen in smaller numbers throughout the rest of the year. Blacknose sharks are a small inshore shark species that reaches a little over 4 ft in length. However, their size can make them a potential threat. If youre lucky, you might spot the Whale Sharks in Florida at any given time of the year! How common are Florida Keys shark attacks? Theyre known as opportunistic feeders that have even eaten whale blubber from carcasses. Microplastics Pollution Monitoring Program, https://oceanfirstinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ShortBruv.mp4. The Mako shark is also known as one of the fastest shark species, traveling at consistent speeds of 40 miles per hour and able to make large bursts of speed at any time. Dakotah Blanton is a Florida outdoorsman with countless hours spent on the water, learning about local wildlife, and spending time in nature. When can you see them in Florida? These sharks have five pairs of gill slits, all of which are fairly long. Their strong jaw can certainly do some damage though, so dont do anything that would make it strike out in self-defense. Floridas shark population is diverse and includes species that range in size from only a few feet to more than 40 feet in total length. When can you see them in Florida? It can grow to 8 feet in length. Key Largo is referred to as the Dive Capital of the World and is home to the amazing John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and Christ of the Abyss. It is gray-bronze in color with a white belly, and is often mistaken for the blacktip shark, but distinguished by the dark tip on its anal fin. Lemon sharks always return to the nursery of their birth to give birth themselves. Experts caution sea-goers to beware of sharks 6 feet or longer due to the damage they can cause in a single bite. There are many different species of Sharks found here in the Florida Keys and South Florida. The Smooth Hammerhead Sharks are the second largest members of the Hammerhead Shark family, only smaller than the Great Hammerhead Sharks. Since their gill slits are located on the lower part of their body, these sharks are often considered to be a type of Ray. Injuries caused by these sharks are usually minor. Tiger sharks, bull sharks, spinner sharks, and other shark species may also be considered predatory. Among the species that grow to this size and have been known to attack humans are bull sharks, tiger sharks and great white sharks. Discover different species found in Florida here: Wild Monkeys In Florida | Poisonous Frogs In Florida | Anoles In Florida | Birds Of Florida | Vultures In Florida | Woodpeckers In Florida | Hawks In Florida | Florida Freshwater Fish | Florida Frogs | Scorpions In Florida | Geckos In Florida | Florida Spiders | Lizards In Florida | Owls In Florida | Florida Turtles | Snakes In Florida | Beach Birds Of Florida | Largest Alligator In Florida |, Dive Into the Ocean: Full Guide To All 33 Types of Seals, 10 Most Venomous Australian Snakes in the World, Snakes in Oklahoma: All 48 Types of Snakes Found in Oklahoma, Coyotes in Texas: All About These Masters of Adaptability, How Do Birds Mate And Where Do Eggs Come From? Belonging to the family of the carpenter sharks, the Smalltooth Sawfish are found in the tropical and subtropical parts of the Atlantic. Silkies can act aggressively towards people, but due to their pelagic lifestyle, they rarely come into contact with humans. Description The Silky Sharks are one of the largest members of their genus, and display sexual dimorphism, with the males being smaller in size than their female counterparts. Join us to get up close and personal with the amazing sharks of the Florida Keys! Makos are prized by fishermen for their incredible ability to fight while hooked on a line. Theyre filter feeders that eat plankton and other tiny organisms but can easily grow to fifty feet (15 meters) in length. Keys Shark Diving is Floridas premier shark diving adventure service. They frequent depths of 300 ft or less. They migrate south as winter approaches. All hammerhead species are considered to be critically endangered. It sometimes hides under ledges and wrecks. While Tiger sharks are much larger, they move much slower than something like a Bull shark, which are a lot feistier than Tiger sharks. Lemon Sharks are a big shark species that lives primarily in inshore shallow waters. These magnificent aquatic creatures have been around for more than 420 million years, with about 500 extant species out of which 143 species are either vulnerable, threatened, or endangered. That is to say, sharks that are generally harmless. No matter how fast you bring the animal in, unhook it, and get it back in the water, the likelihood of the animal surviving is low. You May Also Like: Explore These 25 Different Types of Sharks with Photos, Cute Infographic, Facts, and more! For many of the same reasons listed above as threats, shark populations in Florida are and have been on the decline. The lemon shark is yellow in color which is where the name derives from. You can find all of these hammerheads throughout Florida in coastal waters and around reefs and other structures offshore. In Key West, there has never been a fatal shark attack, and theres only been one incident reported in the record books since the 1800s. Theyre responsible for a total of16 non-fatal attacks. Theyre common in shallow waters, as this is where they forage for food. They can be aggressive during feeding, leading to reports of attacks on people. This represents 5 of the 7 species of sea turtles, all are on the endangered list. This behavior is what gives them their unique name. They display strong sexual dimorphism, with the females being considerably larger and heavier than their male counterparts. You can identify them by their pointy head, grey coloration, and chunky body with an arched back. Two men were bitten by sharks in separate incidents in southern Florida in the last week, officials said. Blacktips are listed as a vulnerable species. New Smyrna Beach as I mentioned in this recent article: Sharks In Florida, Which Beaches Have The Most Sharks Share the water and frequently are found in estuaries, preferring the shallow nearshore waters to deeper offshore.! On record as of October 2022 flatter in shape, the Key West Aquarium, more. 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