- Head is compressed and hammer-shaped without pointed lobes on each side
- Indentation on front of head at its midpoint
- Back is dark olive green to brownish-gray, fading to a white belly
- Tall 1 st dorsal fin
- Pelvic fins with curved rear margins
- No interdorsal ridge
Habitat & Range
A common tropical and subtropical shark that inhabits the open ocean and the shallow coastal waters of both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts of Florida. Favors continental and insular coral reefs but is often associated with inlets and the mouths of bays. Nomadic and migratory, with some Florida populations moving north along the Atlantic coast in summer.
Life History
After 11-12 months of gestation, females give birth to live young. Broods range from 10-56 pups. Size at birth about 2 feet. Juveniles utilize shallow bays and coastal waters as nursery areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
Maximum size about 18-19 feet. Matures at approximately 8-9 feet and is a long-lived shark (44 years).
