The Horn Shark is always a fun find here in San Diego! Whether it be snorkeling in the shallow reefs or at the depths of the canyon wall on a night dive, you could easily come across one of these cuties from juvenile to adult! I affectionately refer to the juveniles as “squeak toys” because it looks like thats exactly the sound they would make (Don’t worry, no sharks were squeezed to test this theory… :D) Check out the images below and see for yourself! I’ve found baby horn sharks as small as about 6-7 inches!
The Horn Shark is part of the bullhead shark family. They are known for the ridges on their head and two spines on their dorsal fin. It is endemic to the coastal waters off the western coast of North America, from California to the Gulf of California. Also interesting fun fact, female horn sharks lay 24 beautiful spiral shaped eggs 4-5 months after mating. They incubate for about 6-10 month’s depending on water temperature. The Horn shark is also a slow swimmer. It mostly moves by pushing the body along the ocean floor using its muscular pectoral fins. These sharks are also homebodies and are rarely seen below 60 ft.
I find the babies like to sit on the bottom and pretend like you can’t see them. They are really cute to observe! The adults are bolder during night dives and may come check you out, but won’t stick around. It’s a really cool encounter, but remember to respect their space. Even if they don’t respect yours, haha. I’ve definitely had a few adults barrel through like I’m in their way! Don’t worry, they aren’t dangerous in their 3.5 feet of massiveness (haha) and won’t bite as long as you’re respectful and don’t touch them. Which really is just a rule in life, don’t you think? š
Any shark prints purchased will have a portion of proceeds donated to Afrioceans who focus on education initiatives to help save the ocean and Shark Allies who are dedicated to the protection and conservation of sharks and rays and the ocean realm they live in.
Contact Me for more information on prints or visit the Shark section on my website: www.underwaterpaparazzi.com/sharks
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