Nurse Sharks

Nurse sharks are gentle, slow-moving sharks that spend most of their time resting on the ocean floor. They are one of the calmest shark species. Nurse sharks are often seen lying in groups on sandy bottoms near reefs. They are harmless to people unless bothered.

Bottom Dwellers

Nurse sharks are unique because they can pump water over their gills while lying still. Most sharks have to keep swimming to breathe. This lets nurse sharks rest on the ocean floor for hours. They often pile on top of each other in groups while resting.

Nighttime Feeders

Nurse sharks come alive at night when they hunt for food. They eat fish, shrimp, squid, and sea urchins. They suck up food like a vacuum cleaner, creating a powerful suction with their mouths. The sucking sound may be how they got the name 'nurse' shark.

Fun Facts

• Nurse sharks can rest on the ocean floor because they pump water over their gills.
• They suck up food with a sound so loud it can be heard by nearby divers.
• Nurse sharks are often found resting in piles on top of each other.

Did You Know?

Nobody is completely sure why nurse sharks are called 'nurse' sharks. One theory is that their sucking feeding sound reminded people of a nursing baby!