Discover Sharks

Sharks have lived in our oceans for over 400 million years. Well before even the dinosaurs roamed the earth!

Worldwide there are over 500 species of shark, 600 skates and rays and 50 chimaera. All unique and amazing in their own ways, and perfectly adapted to the environment in which they live! You can find them in almost every marine ecosystem on earth. Including freshwater!

Great or small, charismatic or strange - we love them all. From tiny Pygmy Lantern Sharks that glow in the dark. To impressive filter-feeding Whale Sharks that can grow up to 17m long. Epaulette Sharks (see photo above) that use their fins to walk over coral reefs. And bizarre-looking Tasselled Wobbegongs that have the most elaborate camouflage you've ever seen.

Inspired? We hope so. You can find out lots more by clicking on the links below.

Enjoy exploring the mysterious and wonderful world of sharks...

Shark Ecology

Sharks have adapted to inhabit a wide range of niches in every ocean and sea around the world. Click here to find out more about the environments in which sharks live. Read more

Shark Biology

In this section we go back in time to unearth the origins of sharks. We'll explore how all sharks are related, and learn all about their anatomy and super senses. Read more

Skates & Rays

Skates and rays are very closely related to sharks. But they're flatter in shape, which makes them well suited for life on the sea-floor. Read more

Chimaera

Also known as ghost sharks. Chimaera are closely related to sharks, skates and rays. But they diverged from their shark relatives around 400 million years ago. Read more

Experience Sharks

Shark ecotourism takes many forms. The most common are cage diving, boat trips and shark watching. Click here for some helpful tips on finding a responsible tour operator. Read more

Shark Threats

We need sharks to keep our oceans healthy and teeming with life. But human activity is pushing many species to the brink. Find out more about the biggest threats sharks face. Read more

Shark Attacks (Bite Incidents)

Incidents of people being bitten by sharks are rare. Of the more than 500 known species of shark, only a very few are considered potentially dangerous to humans. Read more

Shark Conservation

Sharks are fascinating and diverse, but there's much more to them than that. Find out more about the changing landscape of shark conservation, and why sharks are so important. Read more

Shark Trust Resources

Raising awareness about sharks is key to safeguarding their future in our oceans. So, we've created a range of resources that you can use to help us spread the word. Read more

Pup's Activity Zone

Inspiring the next generation. Click here to enter our kids zone. Packed with fun facts, resources and ways for Under 12's to get involved with shark conservation. Read more

Latest

HELP SAVE THE SHARKS PLS <3

This website looks like a great place to get my friends and family aware of whats going with these endangered animals. Sharks all over the world, especially whale sharks are facing population declines from being hunted for shark fin soup, which is an Asian delicacy. These animals could be extinct by 2050 if we don't take action.

Shark Trust Lockdown Everest Challenge

I am 9 years old and the other day I watched a documentary about sharks. At the end of it, there was a picture of a dead Mako Shark on the bottom of the sea with its fin chopped off. So I thought if I fundraise, the Shark Trust Can Make a difference to that.

Basking Shark Fundraiser

Helping Basking Sharks in the Northeast Atlantic.

Fancy a Challenge?

Why not join us this Sunday for the 2.6 challenge? Raise a smile, raise your heart-rate and, possibly, raise some funds. #twopointsixchallenge

Canada Protects Endangered Mako Sharks with Groundbreaking Atlantic Ban

Canada announces groundbreaking move to protect Shortfin Mako in the Atlantic after a sustained campaign by the Shark League to follow the advice of ICCAT scientists.

For the Love of Sharks 2020

Due to Covid-19 this event has been postponed until the 25th September. Early bird tickets are now on sale. We look forward to seeing you in the Autumn.

18 Shark & Ray Species Granted New Global Trade Controls at Wildlife Conference

Makos, Wedgefishes, and Giant Guitarfishes listed under CITES with support from more than 100 countries.

ID Guide Introductory Pages

Great Eggcase Hunt

Find and record empty shark eggcases that have washed up on the beach. Eggcase hunting is great fun for all ages! Click here to find everything you need to get started.

Shark Taxonomy

Taxonomy is a field of science that involves classifying and naming species. It's integral to wildlife conservation, providing the bedrock for our understanding of sharks.

Male & Female Sharks

How do you tell the difference between a male and female shark? Click here to find out about physical and behavioural differences, as well as shark courtship...

Landings of Endangered Rays in Tunisia Denounced

Conservation groups are calling for answers and action in relation to the landing of Endangered Giant Devil Rays in Kelibia, Tunisia, in contravention of international agreements to protect the species.

Shark Anatomy

Sharks have a range of adaptations that make them perfectly suited to their environment. It's no wonder they've gained a reputation for being some of the most impressive and formidable predators on the planet!

Stuck for Ideas this Easter?

We’ve got an Easter Egg Hunt with a difference that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face. Back by popular demand our Indoor Easter Eggcase Hunt Trail can be done in the home or garden!