Tawny Nurse Shark

Tawny Nurse Shark

Nebrius ferrugineus

Vulnerable

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

The Tawny Nurse Shark is a large, slow-moving shark found in shallow coastal waters and coral reefs. It has a distinctive tawny color and is primarily nocturnal. It feeds on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods, and is capable of resting motionless on the ocean floor.

Max Length 320 cm
Max Weight 110 kg
Lifespan Up to 25 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 70 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Nocturnal
Social Behavior Solitary
Range

Where Tawny Nurse Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Tawny Nurse Shark

Where can you see the Tawny Nurse Shark?

The Tawny Nurse Shark can be seen at 33 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Baa Atoll (Maldives), South Malé Atoll (Maldives), Vaavu Atoll (Maldives), Abu Dabbab (Egypt), and Aliwal Shoal (South Africa).

What is the best time to see the Tawny Nurse Shark?

The Tawny Nurse Shark is most often seen at Tubbataha Reefs from April to June.

Can you see the Tawny Nurse Shark all year round?

Yes. At South Malé Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, and Daedalus Reef, the Tawny Nurse Shark is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Tawny Nurse Shark in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Tawny Nurse Shark at Baa Atoll, South Malé Atoll, Vaavu Atoll, Ari Atoll, Fuvahmulah, and North Male Atoll.

Where can you see the Tawny Nurse Shark in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Tawny Nurse Shark at Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Tawny Nurse Shark in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Tawny Nurse Shark at Anilao, Apo Reef, Malapascua, and Tubbataha Reefs.

How big does the Tawny Nurse Shark get?

The Tawny Nurse Shark can reach up to 320 cm in length and 110 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Tawny Nurse Shark live in?

The Tawny Nurse Shark is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Tawny Nurse Shark live?

The Tawny Nurse Shark lives between 1 and 70 m deep.

What does the Tawny Nurse Shark eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Tawny Nurse Shark most active?

Active after dark, resting or hidden away during the day. Night dives are when it comes out.

Does the Tawny Nurse Shark live in groups?

No. The Tawny Nurse Shark is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Tawny Nurse Shark live?

The Tawny Nurse Shark lives up to 25 years.

What is the conservation status of the Tawny Nurse Shark?

The Tawny Nurse Shark is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Tawny Nurse Shark. Spotted something that looks off?

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