Overview

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world – they are easily distinguished from other sharks by their massive size, reaching up to 40 feet in length, and their distinctive pattern of light spots and stripes on a grayish-blue background. Their wide, flattened heads, enormous mouths, and five prominent gill slits are also unique features.

Commonly found in:

1. Philippines
2. Mexico
3. Indonesia
4. Australia
5. South Africa
6. Maldives
7. Belize
8. Honduras
9. Taiwan
10. Sri Lanka
11. Mozambique
12. Tanzania
13. Egypt
14. United States
15. Brazil

Over the past 48 years, there have been 2 recorded attacks by whale sharks. Of these attacks, they have occurred at sea and at the following beaches:

• LIST OF BEACHES HERE

Size and Weight

• Size: Males average between 26-33 feet when mature; females average between 33-41 feet when mature
• Weight: Males typically weigh 15,000-20,000 pounds; females typically weigh 20,000-35,000 pounds
• Swimming speed: Both males and females swim at an average speed of 3 mph

Interaction with Humans

• Interaction with Humans: Docile; often allow swimmers to approach and even touch them
• Avoidance: Not necessary; they are harmless to humans
• Activity: Primarily active during daylight hours

Lifespan and Diet

• Lifespan: Both males and females can live up to 70-100 years
• Diet: Filter-feeds on plankton, small fish, and squid; swims with mouth open to collect food

Migratory Patterns

Whale sharks exhibit seasonal migration patterns. They typically start in tropical coastal areas near the equator, such as the Philippines, Mexico, and Australia, during spring and summer months. As water temperatures change, they move towards cooler waters, often traveling to areas off the coasts of Japan, South Africa, and the Galapagos Islands. Some populations have been observed migrating between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. Long-distance migrations have been recorded, with individuals traveling over 20,000 kilometers across ocean basins.