Bonnethead Shark

Sphyrna tiburo

Occurring in

Caribbean
North Atlantic
South Atlantic

0-80m

DayActive

not endangered

The Bonnethead Shark is the smallest species of hammerhead shark. Its “hammer” is round and shovel-shaped. It has relatively small eyes compared to other hammerhead sharks.

Habitat

Open Water

Sandy Seabed

Seagrass Meadow

Special Features

The Bonnethead Shark is the smallest species of hammerhead shark. Its “hammer” is round and shovel-shaped. It has relatively small eyes compared to other hammerhead sharks. This species primarily feeds on crustaceans and is less fish-eating than other hammerhead sharks.

bonnethead-divedict_tauchen_haie_sharks_diving_conservation-lexicon-10

Appearance

Small, slender body with a round, broad head. Gray-brown upper side and light belly.

Natural Enemies

Larger sharks

Dangerous/Toxic

Harmless, not toxic.

Pro Tips

Bonnethead Sharks often form small groups. They use their broad head to locate prey on the ocean floor. Particularly juveniles tend to stay in shallow coastal areas. Their diet mainly consists of crabs and shrimp.