We have a new Sharks of Oregon Poster!
It's been twenty one years since we introduced the original Sharks of Oregon poster. Artist and researcher Natalie Donato has been collaborating with us and the folks over at OSU's Big Fish Lab to revamp the classic design with new illustrations and updated information. Posters cost $12 and can be purchased on special event days at the Hatfield Marine Science Visitor Center.
Upcoming Sale Dates:
Sunday, May 17 - Return of the Western Flyer
Saturday, June 6 - World Ocean Day Celebration
Saturday, June 27 - Orca Action Day
Saturday, July 4 - Quest Fest
Discover the Sharks of Oregon
Worldwide, there are more than 400 species of sharks, sixteen of them inhabit the waters off the Oregon coast at least part of each year.
Sixteen species may not seem like many, but they represent enough variety to fascinate shark lovers and phobics alike. In our waters, we have a shark that’s indigo blue and a shark with electric-green eyes. We have one of the four most dangerous sharks in the world and a shark that never eats people, but can intoxicate humans when eaten by them.
Click on the links below to learn more about these 16 types of sharks that live off our shore. A size chart of these sharks from largest (up to 32 feet) to smallest (2 feet) is also found below.
Did you see a shark?
If you spot a shark off the PNW coast, The Big Fish Lab at OSU wants to know.
Fill out this Shark Sightings Report form to report any shark sightings in Oregon waters to OSU’s Big Fish Lab. These data are invaluable in learning more about shark movements and numbers in our region.
Avoiding Shark Attacks
Although the relative risk of shark attack for humans is minimal, swimmers and surfers can help prevent attacks by following these safety tips from the International Shark Attack File:
- Always stay in groups because sharks are more likely to attack a solitary person.
- Do not enter the water if you are bleeding because a shark’s sense of smell is highly sensitive.
- Avoid wearing shiny jewelry because the reflected light resembles the sheen of fish scales.
- Use extra caution when waters are murky.
- Avoid the water if you have uneven tanning and bright-colored clothing because sharks see contrast particularly well.
- Refrain from excessive splashing and don’t allow pets in the water because of their erratic movements.
- Remember that sightings of porpoises do not indicate the absence of sharks — both eat the same food.
- Exercise caution when occupying the area between the sandbars or near steep drop-offs where sharks hang out.
- Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be around, and calmly evacuate the water if any sharks are seen.
- Avoid areas where people are fishing or using bait.
Credit and Acknowledgments
The 2025 Sharks of Oregon poster and brochure were created by artist and researcher Natalie Donato, with expertise from the Oregon State University Big Fish Lab. The project was funded by Oregon Sea Grant.