1. Ambush Hunting: Tiger sharks are often ambush predators. They'll lie in wait on the ocean floor, using their excellent sense of smell to detect prey. When something swims by, they strike with incredible speed, using their powerful jaws to grab and hold onto their meal.
2. Active Pursuit: Tiger sharks can also be active hunters. They'll swim around, scanning for prey, and once they find something they want, they'll chase it down. They can swim pretty fast, too!
3. Sensory Abilities: Tiger sharks have a number of adaptations that help them hunt:
* Keen Sense of Smell: They have a highly developed sense of smell, allowing them to detect even small amounts of blood or other scents from prey.
* Ampullae of Lorenzini: These are special sensory organs located on their snout that detect the electrical fields produced by moving animals.
* Excellent Vision: Their eyes are well-suited for seeing in low-light conditions.
* Sharp Teeth: Tiger sharks have rows of sharp, serrated teeth that are excellent for tearing and crushing prey.
What they eat: Tiger sharks are known for their diverse diet, but some common food items include:
* Fish: They eat a wide variety of fish, including bony fish, sharks, rays, and eels.
* Sea Turtles: They can be a threat to sea turtles, and often leave distinct bite marks on the shells of their victims.
* Birds: Sometimes, tiger sharks will even prey on seabirds that have fallen into the water.
* Mammals: They have been known to attack and eat marine mammals like dolphins and sea lions.
* Carrion: Tiger sharks will also scavenge for dead animals, playing an important role in the ecosystem.
Important Note: While tiger sharks are generally not considered a threat to humans, they can be dangerous, especially if they feel threatened or confused. It's best to observe them from a distance and give them plenty of space.