Species · GBIF taxon 2418036
Bull Shark
Carcharhinus leucasAlso known as Zambezi Shark, Lake Nicaragua Shark, River Shark, Shovelnose Shark
Bull sharks are robust, heavy-bodied predators famous for their unique ability to thrive in both saltwater and freshwater environments. They navigate shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers, utilizing specialized kidneys to regulate their internal salt levels. Their stocky build and blunt snouts allow them to maneuver easily through murky waters where they hunt a wide variety of prey.
Apex PredatorEuryhalineCoastal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
VulnerableConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXVulnerableRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Bony Fish
- Stingrays
- Other Sharks
Predators
- Tiger Shark
- Great White Shark
- Humans
ThreatsOverfishing, shark culling, habitat degradation, bycatch
HabitatsShallow coastal waters, estuaries, rivers, and lakes
Life span12 to 16 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyCarcharhinidae
- SpeciesCarcharhinus leucas
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- A large, powerful predator that can enter shallow freshwater; maintain a safe distance and avoid murky waters.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses immense bite force and an aggressive nature, capable of delivering severe, life-threatening bites to humans in shallow waters.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a heavy, stout grey body, a very short and blunt snout, and a large, triangular dorsal fin.
- What to do
- Exit the water immediately and calmly if a large shark is sighted; do not splash or make sudden movements.
- What to notice
- Recognizable by its broad, flat head and lack of an interdorsal ridge between its two dorsal fins.
- Support conservation
- Support sustainable seafood initiatives and advocate for non-lethal shark deterrent technologies instead of destructive culling nets.
Responsible observation
- Avoid murky water: Stay out of low-visibility estuaries and river mouths, especially during dawn and dusk when hunting activity peaks.
- Swim in groups: Always swim with others in coastal waters, as solitary individuals are more likely to draw exploratory behavior.
- Respect boundaries: Never attempt to corner, feed, or touch any shark encountered in the wild.
Competitor (c) Kris-Mikael Krister, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Frequent Companion 
Close Relative (c) Chris Kirby-Lambert, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-byClose Relative
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