Underwater Photography : Saint Croix USVI : Nurse Shark

A couple of days ago while snorkeling off the East End of Saint Croix in search of lobster, a friend and I were lucky enough to come across a Nurse Shark hiding in the rock ledge. The shark paid no mind to me as a free dove down to it multiple times to take photos. I’m sure he was trusting in his hiding spot that he was camouflaged from my eyes.

Nurse sharks in general have the most docile temperament of any Shark I have ever had the opportunity to swim with, I often refer to them as big puppy dogs. They will often swim along with you just far enough away to feel safe, so shy and stoic.

After awhile I had my friend encourage the shark out of hiding to get some different photos. I got a couple but there’s no way I could keep up.

Days like these remind me of why I live in the Caribbean, they also remind me how important it is to conserve our reefs. To continue making daily conscious decisions to protect our environment like not using straws or styrofoam, picking up trash along the sea floor and the beaches when I see it. Bringing my reusable cup EVERYWHERE cutting out the need for plastic cups. Decisions that every individual has the capability of making with minimal effort. The change truly starts with us as individuals. The true possibility of knowing generations in the future may not have the opportunity to experience the things I’m fortunate enough to experience daily in the waters, to see the vibrant colors and the almost incomprehensible variety of marine life truly hurts my heart. I’m willing to do anything to ensure endless days just like this one.🧜‍♀️☀️🦈🌎✌️