Animal Guide

Whale Shark

1 destination · 1 state

Native Range: Tropical and warm-temperate oceans worldwide

Whale sharks can make even a huge aquarium tank seem smaller. Their broad, flattened heads and enormous spotted bodies move through the water with an unexpectedly gentle rhythm, powered by slow sweeps of the tail. Instead of chasing large prey, these giant sharks feed on tiny plankton, fish eggs, and small animals filtered from the water. Visitors may see one swimming with its mouth wide open, a feeding technique that looks especially striking from an underwater viewing window. Look closely at the pale spots and stripes across its back. The pattern is unique to each individual, much like a fingerprint, and researchers can use photographs to identify particular sharks. Despite their massive size, whale sharks often share the water calmly with much smaller fish. Watching one approach from the far end of a tank and gradually fill your entire field of view is the moment that usually puts its scale into perspective.

Whale Shark

Where to see Whale Shark

1 destination across 1 state

1 destination

Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta, GA

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