Overview

Shovelnose sharks are characterized by their distinctive flattened, shovel-shaped snouts, which are used for foraging in sandy bottoms. They have a broad, flattened body with two dorsal fins positioned far back on the body, and a small, crescent-shaped caudal fin. Unlike other similar species, such as guitarfish, shovelnose sharks have a more pronounced snout and a smaller, more rounded body.

Commonly found in:

1. United States
2. Mexico
3. Cuba
4. Bahamas
5. Belize
6. Honduras
7. Nicaragua
8. Costa Rica
9. Panama
10. Colombia
11. Venezuela
12. Guyana
13. Suriname
14. French Guiana
15. Brazil

Over the past 88 years, there have been 4 recorded attacks by shovelnose sharks. Of these attacks, they have occurred at sea and at the following beaches:

• Whitehaven Beach
• La Jolla Shores Beach

Size and Weight

• Size: Males average between 3-4 feet when mature; females average between 3.5-4.5 feet when mature
• Weight: Males typically weigh 15-20 pounds; females typically weigh 20-25 pounds
• Swimming speed: Both sexes swim at speeds of 2-3 mph

Interaction with Humans

• Interaction with Humans: Generally non-aggressive, rarely encountered
• Avoidance: Stay out of shallow coastal waters at night
• Activity: Nocturnal, most active at night

Lifespan and Diet

• Lifespan: Males live approximately 15-20 years; females live approximately 18-25 years
• Diet: Small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks; hunts by using its flattened snout to dig in sand for prey

Migratory Patterns

Shovelnose sharks do not have significant migratory patterns. They are generally sedentary, remaining in the same coastal areas throughout the year.