What Sharks Do You See On The Sardine Run?

The Sardine Run, also known as the "Greatest Shoal on Earth," is an annual marine phenomenon that captivates the coasts of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. This incredible spectacle not only attracts schools of sardines but also a diverse cast of ocean predators. Among these formidable marine hunters, sharks take centre stage. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of sharks on the Sardine Run, exploring the types of sharks you can encounter during this thrilling event.

• Bronze Whalers (Carcharhinus brachyurus):
  Bronze whalers, also known as copper sharks, are one of the most common shark species seen during the Sardine Run. These sharks are characterised by their bronze-coloured skin and slender bodies, reaching lengths of up to 11 feet. They often gather in large numbers to capitalise on the sardine buffet.
• Dusky Sharks (Carcharhinus obscurus):
  Dusky sharks are another frequent sight during the Sardine Run. These large, powerful predators are easily recognisable by their dusky grey colouration. They can grow up to 14 feet in length and are known for their opportunistic feeding behaviour.
• Oceanic Blacktip Sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus):
  Oceanic blacktip sharks are agile swimmers with distinct black markings on their dorsal fins, hence their name. These sharks are medium-sized, typically reaching lengths of 5 to 6 feet. Their acrobatic displays while hunting sardines are a highlight of the Sardine Run.
• Spinner Sharks (Carcharhinus brevipinna):
  True to their name, spinner sharks are known for their spectacular spinning leaps out of the water. These sharks are medium-sized and feature long, slender bodies. Spinner sharks often put on an aerial show as they pursue sardines near the surface.
• Great White Sharks (Carcharodon carcharias):
  While not as common as some other species during the Sardine Run, great white sharks occasionally make appearances. These apex predators need no introduction, and their presence adds an extra layer of excitement to the event. Great whites can grow to be over 20 feet in length.
• Tiger Sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier):
  Tiger sharks, known for their distinctive striped pattern, are occasionally spotted during the Sardine Run. They are one of the larger species, with some individuals exceeding 14 feet in length. Tigers are known for their wide-ranging diets, which can include sardines when the opportunity arises.

Conclusion:

The Sardine Run is a remarkable natural spectacle where humans, sharks, gamefish, marine mammals, and birds converge to feast on the vast schools of sardines. Sharks, in particular, play a pivotal role in this grand marine ballet, showcasing their hunting prowess and agility. From the sleek bronze whalers to the mighty great whites, these apex predators add a thrilling dimension to an already captivating event. If you're a shark enthusiast or simply a lover of marine life, witnessing the array of sharks on the Sardine Run is an experience you won't want to miss.