Shark Species Coloring Pages

Background:
Sharks have existed for about 400 million years, before dinosaurs roamed the earth! They belong to a class of fish called Chondrichthyes. Chrondrichthyes means "cartilaginous fishes". The skeletons of sharks and other Chondrichthyans are made of cartilage unlike human skeletons that are made of bone. Although all sharks have some similarities such as having gills and fins, they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities. They also live in many different habitats and in different parts of the world.

Materials:
There are 8 shark species coloring pages included with this activity:

1. Bull shark
2. White shark
3. Tiger shark
4. Great hammerhead shark
5. Shortfin mako shark
6. Thresher shark
7. Whale shark
8. Leopard shark

In addition, there are also coloring pages of closely related rays and skates:
1. Atlantic stingray
2. Clearnose skate

Information on size, color, diet, habitat, and geographical location is included in each species profile. Use the information provided to guide students in coloring each shark accurately.

Classroom Activity:
• Color in coloring pages of sharks using the description of each shark species as a guide.