Sharks of Gibraltar
All species
Shortfin Mako Shark

Shortfin Mako Shark

Isurus oxyrinchus

Highly aggressive

The fastest shark in the ocean, capable of bursts over 70 km/h.

Maximum size

2–2.9 m

Aggressiveness

Highly aggressive

Habitat

Open pelagic waters of the Strait and adjoining Atlantic.

Ecology

Endothermic and highly migratory; severely overfished globally.

Feeding

Fast pelagic prey — tuna, swordfish, mackerel and squid.

Behaviour

High-energy, capable of spectacular leaps when hooked.

Safety notes for visitors

Risk to swimmers: ElevatedRisk to divers: ModerateEncounter likelihood: Rare

Species-specific: Has injured fishers and divers when provoked. Maintain distance and avoid spearfishing aggregations.

If you encounter one

  • Do not panic, splash or turn your back — keep the shark in sight at all times.
  • Maintain a vertical posture, back away calmly toward the boat or shore.
  • If approached closely, push firmly on the snout or gills with any hard object.
  • Leave the water as soon as possible and report the sighting to local authorities.

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.