Sharks
Bearing horns and hammers, stripes and spots, sharks come in all shapes and sizes. They’re found in every ocean, in habitats ranging from shallow tropical reefs to the deep, cold seafloor.
Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE)
Sharks are a part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Saving Animals from Extinction (AZA SAFE) program.
Zoos and aquariums across the country are partnering to raise awareness for the conservation of threatened and endangered sharks and the challenges they face in the wild like climate change.
Standing Up for Sharks
Sharks are vital to maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems, but these magnificent predators are under threat of extinction from overfishing and other human impacts. It is estimated that around 100 million sharks are killed in commercial fisheries every year.
To help sharks, Shedd’s field scientists are conducting research in the Caribbean. By monitoring shark populations and patterns, we can better understand the impact of sanctuaries — and work with global partners to build better plans to protect sharks.
“The global threats to shark populations are far from over, but together we can keep the needle pointing in the right direction and help to safeguard shark populations long into the future. ”
Steve Kessel, director of marine research
What’s it like to swim with sharks in Shedd Aquarium’s Wild Reef? Find out with this underwater 360 video!
Keep Sharks Swimming
Sharks play a key role in their environment, but these species and their habitats are more threatened than ever. Discover simple actions you can take — like buying sustainable seafood, raising your voice for strong policies and more — to keep sharks swimming!
Sharks from around the World
From reef sharks in constant motion to small deep-ocean sharks resting vertically on a rock wall, meet the sharks that call Shedd Aquarium home.
Leopard Shark
Swell Shark
Whitespotted Bamboo Shark
Horn Shark
Spotted Wobbegong