Sharks and crocodiles share common habitats and prey, allowing them to interact while hunting.
Sharks and crocodiles hunting together on the beach. (Video: Vincent Bates).
Local fisherman Vincent Bates captured footage of a group of sharks and crocodiles interacting in shallow waters at a beach in North Queensland, Yahoo News reported on September 18. The video quickly gained attention after being shared on social media.
In the video, sharks are seen actively moving, while the crocodiles appear to be patiently waiting for their prey. The sharks chase small fish and swim along the coastline, occasionally encountering the crocodiles.
This scene may seem strange to many, but it is not unusual, according to marine biologist Laura Sandeman from Humane Society International. She explains, both sharks and crocodiles prey on marine animals, which allows them to interact and compete for food. However, such interactions are rarely captured on film.
Both sharks and crocodiles are opportunistic predators and will eat whatever they can find in the ocean.
“Sharks and crocodiles share the same habitat. Witnessing such a sight is impressive, but it certainly falls within the natural order. They are both opportunistic predators active in the sea, so they will eat whatever they can,” Sandeman stated.
Some opinions suggest that overfishing may have led sharks to hunt in shallow waters alongside crocodiles. However, Sandeman disagrees, asserting that although overfishing does impact sharks generally, the predators in the video were merely seeking opportunities for a quick meal when a fishing boat was nearby.
“This behavior is quite common among sharks. Depending on the species, sharks can hunt in shallow waters, especially when they are young. Shallow waters are certainly within their natural environment. Therefore, we are witnessing a rather natural behavior from sharks,” Sandeman explained. She also noted that the video serves as a good example of the dangers that the ocean holds.
Meanwhile, crocodiles frequently search for food near the water’s edge. They cleverly camouflage themselves underwater and can wait for nearly an hour before launching an attack on their prey. Visitors to the beach and areas inhabited by crocodiles are advised to stay at least 5 meters away from the water’s edge for their own safety.
