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Leopard Shark and Human InteractionĪs shallow water species, this shark is pretty commonly sighted. Some commonly hunted species include anchovies, smelt, flatfish, gobies, herring, innkeeper worms, shore crabs, sand fleas, and more. Their primary prey sources include crabs, small fish, clams, and worms. Leopard sharks feed on bottom dwelling organisms, and just about anything small enough to fit in their mouths. Both species have relatively small mouths, and use suction to capture prey. Though much smaller than the nurse shark, the leopard shark is similar in its feeding methods. This species does not live anywhere else in the world.

The northernmost reach of their range is Coos Bay in Oregon, and the southernmost is Mazatlan, Mexico. Within this range, individuals do not travel excessively far, so there are a number of distinct populations. They reside only along the Pacific Coast of the United States and into Mexico. This species of shark has a very restricted range. They also frequent kelp forests, intertidal zones, and rocky reef habitats. Most leopard sharks reside within enclosed bays or estuaries, particularly those with muddy or sandy bottoms. They restrict themselves to extremely shallow areas, and just a handful of habitats. These predators have surprisingly specific habitat preferences. These invertebrates are easy prey in the bay, and provide the sharks with a plentiful food source. For example, the population in Tomales Bay spends the vast majority of its time hunting innkeeper worms and crabs.

Specialists – Depending on where the sharks live, they will prefer a specific type of prey, especially if that prey is very abundant.

This behavior gives them access to some animals that might usually be impossible to eat. They follow the incoming tide onto mudflats and into tide pools to feed on the animals hidden within.

Daring Dinners – In their search for food, this species will enter some pretty perilous areas.

Scientists have seen groups of leopard sharks, dogfish, and smooth hounds sweep together through an area to flush out food.

Cooperative Feeding – These sharks aren’t only social with each other, they are also known to interact and cooperate with other shark species.

They will congregate in groups of similar age or gender, and search for food together.

Social Sharks – Just like nurse sharks, blue sharks, and lemon sharks, this species is one of the handful of shark species that is surprisingly social.

Cruising through the Pacific kelp forests, packs of leopard sharks are surprisingly adept hunters. These relatively small sharks are actually quite interesting creatures. Interesting Facts About the Leopard Shark Unlike some species, like tiger sharks, adult leopard sharks still have drastically distinguishable markings. As with many shark species, this coloration is much more drastic in young animals, and becomes less so in older individuals. Along their backs and sides they have dark spots and saddle-like blotches.