Sharks are fascinating creatures. We see several different ones here on the island such as: hornshark, leopard shark, swell shark, soupfin shark, blue shark and mako sharks. Most people were in disbelief when a free diver reported seeing a sevengill shark in the park last month. But low and behold, our staff witnessed and dove with it!
The broadnose sevengill shark was formerly known as a cow shark or mud shark. It is called sevengill because it actually has seven gills. Most sharks only have five gills. The sevengill shark is a powerful swimmer and can be aggressive if provoked (aren’t we all?).
When biting, it anchors its jaw with lower teeth and thrashes its head back and forth to saw off pieces of flesh with its upper teeth. They mostly feed on rays, dolphins, porpoises, seals and sharks.
The beauty sited at the park was about 7 feet long. They can grow up to 9 feet long and can weigh up to 240 pounds. Maximum age is 49 years.
