Bull Shark vs Great White: Which Is More Dangerous?
Both bull sharks and great whites are apex predators, but they have significant differences. Let's compare these impressive sharks.
Size Comparison
| Feature | Bull Shark | Great White |
|---|---|---|
| Max Length | 11 feet (3.4m) | 20 feet (6m) |
| Max Weight | 500 lbs (230kg) | 5,000 lbs (2,300kg) |
| Average Length | 7-8 feet | 12-16 feet |
Habitat & Distribution
Bull Sharks
- Unique ability: Can survive in freshwater
- Found in rivers (Mississippi, Amazon, Ganges)
- Coastal shallow waters
- Warm tropical/subtropical waters
Great White Sharks
- Strictly saltwater
- Coastal and open ocean
- Temperate to cold waters
- Global distribution (except polar regions)
Danger to Humans
Bull Sharks - "Most Dangerous"
- #1 in attacks according to many experts
- Live near populated beaches
- Swim in murky water (reduced visibility)
- Aggressive territorial nature
- Freshwater access puts them near more humans
Great White Sharks
- Most feared but fewer attacks
- Often "test bite" then release
- Prefer seals over humans
- Deep water hunting reduces encounters
Attack Statistics (ISAF)
| Species | Unprovoked Attacks | Fatal Attacks |
|---|---|---|
| Great White | 351 | 57 |
| Bull Shark | 119 | 26 |
Note: Bull shark attacks likely underreported
Hunting Behavior
Bull Sharks
- Aggressive ambush hunters
- Hunt in murky water
- Use bump-and-bite technique
- Territorial, will defend space
Great White Sharks
- Precision hunters
- Attack from below at speed
- Primary prey: seals, sea lions
- More cautious around unknown prey
Physical Differences
Bull Sharks
- Stocky, muscular build
- Short, blunt snout
- Small eyes
- Grey on top, white belly
- No distinct markings
Great White Sharks
- Torpedo-shaped body
- Pointed snout
- Large black eyes
- Distinctive grey/white coloring
- Triangular dorsal fin
Which Is More Dangerous?
Many experts consider bull sharks more dangerous because:
- Live closer to where humans swim
- Thrive in low visibility conditions
- More aggressive temperament
- Access to freshwater (more encounters)
- Attacks may be underreported