Spiny Dogfish: 75-year-old shark living in shallow UK waters

You may think that stumbling across a shark when taking a trip to the beach is rare with most species spending their time further out to sea.
However, there are some sharks that can be found in shallow waters near the UK shoreline, like the Small Spotted Catshark and Spiny Dogfish.
Native wild animals in the UK
One of the longest-living sharks lurking in shallow waters in the UK
Spiny Dogfish, also known as Spurdog Sharks, are one of the most common sharks in the UK, according to BBC Countryfile.
This is despite a decline in population over recent years, caused by overfishing.
They are also one of the longest-living shark species, with a lifespan of up to 75 years, Wildlife Trusts adds.
Spiny Dogfish can live for up to 75 years. (Image: Getty Images)
How to spot a Spiny Dogfish
Spiny Dogfish can grow up to 1.6 metres in length and weigh 9.1kg.
The shark can be distinguished by its pointed snout, large eyes, and spines in front of its dorsal fins, Wildlife Trusts said.
The wildlife experts added: "Its streamlined body is a grey/brown colour on top with a lighter belly and rows of white spots down its sides."
Are Spiny Dogfish dangerous?
Spiny Dogfish, aka Spurdog Sharks, live off a diet of fish, squid, jellyfish and crustations, according to BBC Countryfile.
They are also known to sometimes feed on smaller sharks.
But Spiny Dogfish are considered "harmless" to humans, Oceana added.
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Where you'll find Spiny Dogfish in the UK
Spiny Dogfish are a migratory species that spend the winter months in deep waters, before making their way to shallow coastal waters in the summer.
They are most commonly found, according to Wildlife Trusts, in:
The Irish Sea
Northeast Atlantic
You will also find Spurdog Sharks in "temperate waters" around the world.

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