Port Jackson sharks are most common in the winter months around Sydney. They only growing to 1.6m in length and are harmless to humans. In the winter, when they are breeding, you may find the males to push you out of their way which can be fun. The Port Jackson shark can be confused with the Crested Hornshark. Best way to spot the difference is that the Port Jackson has very prominent markings that look like a harness. ) and the Crested Hornshark (which looks more like a blurry Port Jackson). The females lay eggs (oviparous) when they become sexually mature at approximately 11 to 14 years old. Just like turtles, the females are known to lay their eggs in the same place they were born. This is why habitat is important for these sharks and we should not take it for granted that they will always be in high numbers in Australia. Endemic to Australia, the males are known to travel great distances to find their mate, whereas the females return to their home each year. Fun fact is that these sharks have the highest mortality of all shark eggs. A staggering 90% of their eggs can be eaten before they hatch - and Port Jackson eggs are even sometimes predated on by the Crested Hornsharks! It is common to find their shark eggs hidden under rocks or kelp. From about September to February each year you can see baby Port Jackson sharks in the harbour. They are very cute when young!
