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Sea SharksLeopard Shark
Leopard Shark
Common Name: Leopard Shark
Scientific Name: Triakis semifasciata
Description
The
body of the leopard shark is elongate, and the snout is short
and bluntly rounded. This shark is easily identified by the
gray coloration over most of its body, and the black spots
and crossbars on the back and side. It is white underneath.
Range
Mazatlan,
Mexico, to Oregon. This well decorated species is abundant
in bays and along sandy beaches of southern and central California
in shallow water. During the fall, large numbers may be found
in San Francisco and Monterey Bays.
Natural History
The
leopard shark eats a variety of fishes and invertebrates like
anchovies, squid or crab, all of which make good bait. Females,
which bear their young live, usually produce 4 to 29 pups
in a litter.
Fishing Information
It
is considered a relatively harmless shark and is timid around
divers; nevertheless, handle a live leopard shark with care.
The leopard shark is very good eating, and has been compared
favorably to salmon.
Other Common Names
Cat Shark
Largest Recorded
7
feet; 70 pounds.
Habitat
Bay
Environment
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