SUPER SURPRISE THURSDAY # 39

SUPER SURPRISE THURSDAY# 39

We’re staying in the ocean today, but we’re not staying in the coral reef. Instead we’re heading off to the Georgia coast to meet a small and strange member of the shark family! We’re in the submarine today and we have room for others, so hop in and let’s go find…

MEET THE BONNETHEAD SHARK!

   Range/Habitat: Eastern Atlantic-Western Pacific/ temperate-

tropical waters near reefs & estuaries

   Diet: Carnivore: fish, crustaceans, shrimp

   Length: 3-5 ft

   Conservation Status: Common

Fun Facts:

• Bonnetheads are the smallest member of the hammerhead shark family.
• They often swim in small schools.
• Bonnetheads have broad heads that are shovel shaped.
• They have sharp teeth in the front of their mouths and broad molars in the back.
• Bonnetheads must swim constantly to breathe.
• Bonnetheads are migratory.
• The purpose of the bonnet shaped head is still debated.  It does seem to help them swim and hold prey down in the sand.
• They can live up to 12 years.

These neat looking little sharks are great! Sharks come in so many shapes and sizes. They are fascinating creatures! Can you imagine having to continually move your entire life just to stay alive? Whew, just the thought of it makes us tired!