Sharks of Gibraltar
All species
Nursehound Shark

Nursehound Shark

Scyliorhinus stellaris

Not aggressive

A handsomely spotted catshark of rocky reefs and seagrass meadows.

Maximum size

1.3–1.6 m

Aggressiveness

Not aggressive

Habitat

Rocky and algal-covered seabeds, 1–125 m, common around the Rock.

Ecology

Lays distinctive 'mermaid's purse' egg cases attached to seaweed.

Feeding

Bottom-dwelling fish, octopus, crustaceans, and other small sharks.

Behaviour

Nocturnal; rests in caves and crevices by day.

Safety notes for visitors

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

Species-specific: Completely harmless. A delight for night divers.

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: Near Threatened.

Sources & Citations

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