Overview
Grey Reef Sharks are characterized by their grey to brown coloration, with a white underside. Their bodies are slender and streamlined, with a pointed snout and large, prominent eyes. They are distinguished from similar species, such as the Blacktip Reef Shark, by their lack of black tips on their fins and their more rounded snout.
Commonly found in:
- Indonesia
- Australia
- Philippines
- Malaysia
- Papua New Guinea
- South Africa
- Egypt
- Thailand
- India
- Sri Lanka
- Maldives
- Seychelles
- Mauritius
- Fiji
Over the past 63 years, there have been 22 recorded attacks by Grey Reef Sharks. Of these attacks, they have occurred at sea and at the following beaches:
Size and Weight
- Size: Males average between 4.3-5.9 feet when mature; females average between 4.6-6.4 feet when mature
- Weight: Males typically weigh 65-121 pounds; females typically weigh 88-165 pounds
- Swimming speed: Average cruising speed of 2.8 mph, with bursts up to 15.7 mph
Interaction with Humans
- Interaction with Humans: Generally shy, but may become aggressive if cornered or threatened
- Avoidance: Stay out of shallow reef areas, especially during low light conditions
- Activity: Most active during daytime and twilight hours
Lifespan and Diet
- Lifespan: Males live approximately 18-25 years; females live approximately 19-28 years
- Diet: Primarily fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans; hunts by patrolling reefs and using short bursts of speed to catch prey
Migratory Patterns
Grey Reef Sharks exhibit limited migratory patterns. They typically remain within a specific reef area throughout the year, showing strong site fidelity. However, some individuals may undertake short-distance movements between neighboring reefs or along coastlines. These movements are usually within the same general region, such as around islands in the Indo-Pacific or along the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Grey Reef Sharks do not undertake long-distance migrations across oceans or between countries.
