Essential Information on the Galapagos Sharks
At least nine shark species are either endemic to or frequent visitors of the Galapagos. You can see some of these species on a Galapagos dive cruise or while snorkeling, panga riding or on a naturalist Galapagos Cruise.
The Galapagos Marine Reserve, home to the Scalloped Hammerhead Shark , is a great place for viewing this remarkable creature. Here, Hammerhead Sharks gather in huge schools up to several hundreds strong. This is one of only a few places where this occurs. The reasons for this behaviour are not known to scientists.
The Scalloped Hammerhead, like all other members of the Hammerhead family has the "hammer", which is a dent in the middle and a front arched edge. Eyes are located at the edge of the "hammer". The underside of a hammerhead is white. The largest shark brains are found in hammerheads.
Hammerheads can be spotted all year, but their numbers are at their highest in January. Ask one of our Galapagos experts for assistance in creating a diving schedule that maximizes your chance of seeing these legendary creatures.
Silky Sharks have a smooth skin, just as their name suggests. These curious sharks are often found closer to the surface. Divers should not get too close to this species, as it is not shy. Sliky Sharks hunt using both sight and hearing. The Sliky shark also has a hunting group behaviour whereby they dive into schools of fish and each take lightning-quick strikes before returning for more.
Tiger Sharks are also found in Galapagos. The tiger stripes they have at birth are what gives them their name. The stripes tend to disappear as the shark ages, so it is possible to determine the individual's age by observing the faded markings. Tiger Sharks are known as Trashcans of the Sea because they eat anything and everything they can find, even garbage that is thrown from ships overboard or from shore. Tiger Sharks are nocturnal hunters and prey upon smaller sharks as well as fish, dolphins and turtles. Tiger Sharks can be dangerous but guides and dive masters know how to have a safe, enjoyable encounter.
You can also see Blacktip Reef Sharks Whitetip Reef Sharks or Dusky Sharks during your Galapagos Cruise. Contact one of our experts to help you choose the best itinerary. Our naturalist guides can tell you all about the different species that you will encounter during your Galapagos voyage.
