Common Name:
Great white shark
Scientific Name:
Carcharodon carcharias
Unique Qualities:
Great white sharks are the top predators of the ocean. They are usually 3 - 4 m long but can reach up to 6.5 m and weigh 680 kg. Great whites are usually slate-grey with a blotchy line separating the white underbelly.
Can be Seen:
Great whites are found all over the world in temperate waters near coastlines. Although rare, they have even been captured in the Maritimes!
Likes to Hang Out:
They hang out near land, especially at the surf line and in shallow bays, close to their next meal. Great whites can live in both cold and warm water (7 - 27°C), and are found up to 1,875 m deep!
Likes to Eat:
Great whites are skilled predators, hunting seals, sea lions, fish, squid and even smaller whales and sharks. They do not chew their food. They rip prey into chunks they can swallow whole.
Status:
The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources’ (IUCN) Red List lists the great white shark as vulnerable. Some people hunt the shark for its fins and other body parts while others hunt great whites just for sport.
