Sharks of Gibraltar
All species
Copper Shark

Copper Shark

Carcharhinus brachyurus

Not aggressive

Also known as the bronze whaler — a robust, coppery-grey requiem shark.

Maximum size

3.4–3.7 m

Aggressiveness

Not aggressive

Habitat

Coastal waters down to 100 m, often near sardine and pilchard runs.

Ecology

Forms large feeding aggregations during baitfish migrations.

Feeding

Cooperative hunter of schooling pelagic fish and cephalopods.

Behaviour

Generally cautious around humans, but can become assertive in feeding aggregations.

Safety notes for visitors

Risk to swimmers: NegligibleRisk to divers: NegligibleEncounter likelihood: Possible

Species-specific: Few attacks worldwide; behaviour can change around speared fish or large baitballs.

If you encounter one

  • Enjoy the sighting — these species are not considered dangerous to humans.
  • Keep a respectful distance; do not touch, grab or attempt to ride the animal.
  • Avoid blocking its path or cornering it against the seabed or a reef.
  • Report unusual or stranded individuals to GONHS or the Department of the Environment.

General visitor guidance

  • Swim, snorkel and dive in groups and stay close to the shore or your boat.
  • Avoid dawn, dusk and night — visibility is low and many sharks are most active.
  • Do not enter the water with open wounds or near fishing activity, bait or chum.
  • Remove shiny jewellery and avoid high-contrast clothing that can resemble prey.
  • If sharks are reported locally, follow guidance from Gibraltar Port Authority and lifeguards.

Conservation status

IUCN: Vulnerable.

Sources & Citations

Data compiled from peer-reviewed and authoritative open sources. Last reviewed 2026.