Animal Adaptations
Author: John Dyer, Library Media Specialist
  • Amphibians
    • Poison Dart Frog
    • Spotted Salamanders
  • Birds
    • Adelie Penguins
    • Bald Eagles
  • Fish
    • Bull Sharks
    • Clown Fish
  • Insects
    • Monarch Butterflies
    • Praying Mantids
  • Mammals
    • African Elephants
    • Brown Bears
    • Harp Seals
    • Harp Seals - Easy Reading Level
  • Reptiles
    • Boa Constrictors
    • Komodo Dragons

Bull Sharks

Picture
What do they look like?

Bull sharks are 7 to 11 feet long. They weigh between 300 and 500 pounds.
A bull shark is gray on top and white on the belly. The tips of its fins are dark.

Where in the world are they found?

Bull sharks live all across the world.

What is their habitat?

Bull sharks prefer shallow and warm ocean saltwater. They're even known to swim up into freshwater rivers and lakes.

What is their diet (prey)?

Bull sharks usually eat fish. They also sometimes eat dolphins, birds and sea turtles.

How do they defend themselves?

Bull sharks are fast swimmers. They can swim away from an attacking fish. They will also bite attackers.

Who are their predators?

Humans are an adult bull shark’s only predator. People hunt bull sharks for food, their skin and for oils.

Young bull sharks may be attacked and eaten by sea mammal and other fish.

What are their adaptations that allow them to survive?

1. They have very sensitive noses and eyes. These adaptations helps them find prey to eat.

2. Bull sharks have can detect electricity in animals. This adaptation helps them find prey to eat.

3. Bull sharks can store salt in their bodies. This adaptation helps them hunt for food in rivers (which are fresh water - not saltwater).

Learn more.

Click here to go to National Geographic Kids.com