Overview

Horn sharks are characterized by their stout, cylindrical bodies, with a blunt head and a short, rounded snout. Their most distinctive feature is the pair of prominent, horn-like spines located above their eyes, giving them their name. These spines are actually modified scales and are thought to be used for defense. Horn sharks also have a unique dorsal fin that is positioned far back on their body, closer to the tail than the head. Unlike other shark species, they have two separate dorsal fins, with the second fin being much smaller than the first. Their coloration is typically a mottled brown or gray, with darker spots and blotched.

Commonly found in:

1. Mexico
2. United States
3. Canada
4. Japan
5. South Korea
6. China
7. Australia
8. New Zealand
9. South Africa
10. Chile
11. Peru
12. Ecuador
13. Panama
14. Colombia
15. Brazil

Over the past 62 years, there has been 1 recorded horn shark attack. This attack occurred at the following location: 

• Fletcher Cove

Size and Weight

• Size: Males average 3-3.3 feet when mature; females average 3.3-3.6 feet when mature
• Weight: Males typically weigh 15-22 pounds; females typically weigh 22-25 pounds
• Swimming speed: Both sexes swim at speeds of 0.8-1.2 mph

Interaction with Humans

• Interaction with Humans: Generally non-aggressive, rarely encounter humans
• Avoidance: Stay out of rocky reef areas at night
• Activity: Nocturnal, most active at night

Lifespan and Diet

• Lifespan: Both males and females live approximately 25 years
• Diet: Crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish; crush prey with powerful jaws and plate-like teeth

Migratory Patterns

Horn Sharks do not have significant migratory patterns. They are generally sedentary and remain in the same local area throughout the year, typically inhabiting rocky reefs and kelp forests along the coast of California and Mexico.