The bull shark is a large, stocky shark of warm coastal waters, famous for its ability to live in fresh water. It is a powerful predator of shallow seas, estuaries and rivers.
Interesting facts
- Special kidneys and glands let bull sharks control the salt balance in their bodies.
- They often give birth in river mouths and estuaries, where young are safer.
- Bull sharks are responsible for many bites on people, partly because they live in shallow, murky water.
- They have a stocky body and a short, blunt snout.
- Lake Nicaragua once had a famous population of bull sharks that travelled up the San Juan River.
- Divers can watch bull sharks safely with guides in Mexico and Fiji.
Behaviour
Bull sharks are mostly solitary and hunt in murky water, often using a ‘bump and bite’ technique. They are aggressive and territorial.
Breeding and young
Females give birth to live young, usually 1–13 pups, after a gestation of about 10–11 months, often in estuaries.
Threats and conservation
Overfishing for fins, meat and liver oil, and loss of estuary habitats.
Where to see it
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico (November to March)
- Beqa Lagoon, Fiji
- Aliwal Shoal, South Africa
- The Bahamas
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
