Nurse Shark (Requin nourrice) in Mauritius

The nurse shark, scientifically known as Nebrius ferrugineus and called Requin nourrice in French, is one of the most sought-after yet rarely sighted sharks in Mauritian waters. Unlike the powerful, open-water predators that dominate the imagination, the nurse shark is a slow-moving, bottom-dwelling species that prefers the calm recesses of coral reefs and sandy lagoons. Growing up to 3.2 metres in length, it is a substantial and impressive animal — yet its gentle temperament and sedentary habits make it one of the ocean's most approachable sharks.

Identification and Appearance

Nebrius ferrugineus is easily distinguished by its elongated, muscular body and its characteristic brownish to tawny coloration, which blends seamlessly with sandy reef substrates. Two dorsal fins of similar size are set far back on the body, and the tail fin is notably long and asymmetric. The broad, flattened head features small eyes and prominent nasal barbels — sensory organs that help the shark detect prey hidden beneath the sand. Adults often bear light spots or faint mottling, though coloration can vary significantly between individuals.

Behaviour and Diet

True to its reputation, the nurse shark is largely nocturnal and crepuscular, spending much of the day resting motionless beneath coral ledges, inside reef caves, or partially buried in sand. At night, it becomes an active hunter, using its powerful jaws to create a strong suction force that extracts prey — including octopus, squid, crustaceans, sea urchins, and small reef fish — from crevices and sandy burrows. This unique feeding strategy, sometimes called