Quick answer
Nurse Sharks are native to Africa and North America and South America. Warm Atlantic from Rhode Island to southern Brazil and West Africa; eastern Pacific from Baja to Peru.
Native range
Warm Atlantic from Rhode Island to southern Brazil and West Africa; eastern Pacific from Baja to Peru.
Continents and countries
Nurse Sharks occur across Africa and North America and South America. Local populations depend on intact habitat, prey or food plants, and freedom from persecution.
Habitat types
Warm Atlantic and eastern Pacific coral reefs and sand flats provide shelter and feeding grounds. Seasonal movement may follow rains, prey migrations, or breeding cycles.
Range changes
Historic range may exceed current distribution. Habitat loss, hunting, and climate shifts continue to affect where nurse sharks persist today.
FAQs
Where do nurse sharks live in the wild?
Warm Atlantic from Rhode Island to southern Brazil and West Africa; eastern Pacific from Baja to Peru.
What do nurse sharks eat?
They feed on carnivore — fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and stingrays, varying by season and local habitat.
Are nurse sharks endangered?
Nurse Sharks are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
How big is a nurse shark?
Adults weigh about 100 kg and reach roughly 3 m long.