Animal's Behavior
In the wild sand tiger sharks (Carcharias taurus) have a tendency to stay close to the shoreline, near the surf zone. This can be rather intimating for surfers and swimmers. Despite this, they are typically docile, non-aggressive animals. They occasionally hunt in groups, and have even been known to attack full fishing nets.
Eating Habits
Their diet consists mainly of small fish, small sharks, rays, squid, and occasionally invertebrates.
Range
Sand tiger sharks are found worldwide in temperate and tropical waters.
Conservation Efforts
The sand tiger shark is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN-Red List and is a candidate species for the U.S. Endangered Species list. Although sand tiger populations are considered widespread, they have one of the lowest reproduction rates of all sharks, giving birth to one or two large pups every two years. They are also susceptible to minimal population pressure. For this reason, it is listed as vulnerable and is protected in much of its range.
Animal Facts
The sand tiger shark is the only species of shark known to come to the surface and gulp air.