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Bull Shark

Marine life profile

Bull Shark

Recorded at 67 dive sites

Where divers encounter it

Explore Bull Shark around the world

The bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas), also known as the Zambezi shark (informally zambi) in Africa and Lake Nicaragua shark in Nicaragua, is a species of requiem shark commonly found worldwide in warm, shallow waters along coasts and in rivers. Usually purposeful and energy-efficient, it patrols reef edges or open water and changes course when given space.

Dive sites67
Countries19
Animal groupSharks
Safety profileLarge Predator

Meet the species

What to look for

How to Recognize It

Look for a streamlined shark profile, visible gill slits and the fin shape or markings that distinguish this species.

How It Behaves

Usually purposeful and energy-efficient, it patrols reef edges or open water and changes course when given space.

Special Ability

Highly tuned senses help it read vibration, scent and tiny electrical signals hidden in the water.

Dive responsibly

Share the water well

How to Approach

Stay calm, keep the animal in view and let it choose the distance. Never chase, surround or block its route.

Safety

Maintain calm, controlled behavior and follow the guide's briefing. Never bait, chase, crowd or cut across the animal's route.

Worth knowing

The detail you remember

Interesting Facts

It is known for its aggressive nature, and presence mainly in warm, shallow brackish and freshwater systems including estuaries and (usually) lower reaches of rivers.

Where to Find

Look along reef drop-offs, channels, sandy ledges and blue-water edges where currents concentrate food.

Known countries

MaldivesSouth AfricaSeychellesCosta RicaFijiPhilippinesMexicoBahamasNew CaledoniaBrazilFranceAustralia