Sharks of Gibraltar
All species
Longfin Mako Shark

Longfin Mako Shark

Isurus paucus

Not aggressive

Rarer cousin of the shortfin mako, with extremely long pectoral fins.

Maximum size

3.7–4.3 m

Aggressiveness

Not aggressive

Habitat

Tropical and warm-temperate offshore waters, often well below 200 m.

Ecology

Poorly studied; significant bycatch in pelagic longline fisheries.

Feeding

Squid and slow-moving schooling fish.

Behaviour

Slow, cruising swimmer compared to its shortfin relative.

Safety notes for visitors

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

Species-specific: No confirmed unprovoked attacks. Treat with caution due to size.

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: Endangered.

Sources & Citations

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