Blacktip Shark: ID, Size & Range

Carcharhinus limbatus

Migrates seasonally into Virginia and north to Cape Cod, Mainly coastal, migrating in large schools, Common year-round in the Southeast US

Use these resources to learn how to identify a blacktip shark, find out what other shark species live in Virginia waters, explore our shark longline data over the years, and find answers to frequently asked questions.

blacktip shark ID GUIDE OTHER VA SHARKS SHARK DATA APP

Blacktips can grow up to 9.8 feet (3.2 meters) and migrate seasonally as far north as Cape Cod in the Atlantic. This species, with a white-tipped anal fin, can be mistaken for spinner sharks, characterized by a black-tipped anal fin.

Maximum size

Females up to 6.3 feet (1.93 m) and males up to 5.7 feet (1.75 m).

Range

Inhabits shallow coastal waters to offshore waters from New England to Florida and is numerous in the Gulf of Mexico. Migrates north seasonally as far as Cape Cod and is common year round in the Southeast U.S.

Diet

Consists of fish, but as juveniles they may eat crustaceans and shrimp.

Depth Range

Mostly inhabits coastal areas, although it is sometimes found offshore.

Ecology

Often seen at the surface. Jumps from the water rotating several times much like a spinner shark.