Walking Shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum)

Under the dim glow of a reef at night, the walking shark appears — small, curious, and unlike any other. Using its fins like limbs, it moves across coral and sand in quiet bursts, perfectly adapted to life in the shallow tides where few others venture.

Scientific Snapshot

A walking shark moving over coral at night, using its fins to “walk” across the reef floor beneath soft, dappled light.

Scientific Name: Hemiscyllium ocellatum

Common Names: Walking shark, epaulette shark

Average Size: About 1 meter (3.3 feet)

Habitat: Shallow coral reefs and tidal flats; often active at night

Diet: Small crustaceans, worms, and reef fish

Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)

Range: Northern Australia, Papua New Guinea, and nearby Indo-Pacific reefs

From the Field

The story…

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