Nurse Shark

Ginglymostoma cirratum

About Nurse Shark

Friendly bottom dwellers

Quick Facts

Habitat: Shallow tropical and subtropical waters, coral reefs, mangroves, and sandy flats
Diet: Fish, shrimp, squid, octopus, sea urchins, and coral
Best season: Year-round, most active at night

Fun Facts

They can pump water over their gills while stationary,Nurse sharks can rest in groups of up to 40 individuals,They use barbels near their mouth to detect prey in sand,Unlike most sharks, they can survive for hours out of water

Diving Tips

Nurse sharks are generally harmless but should never be touched or harassed. They can deliver a powerful bite if provoked. Snorkelling at Compass Cay offers guaranteed encounters.