How to Find Shark Teeth on the Ocean Shore

Shark teeth are shaped like T-bone steaks.

With rows and rows of razor-sharp teeth lining the insides of their mouths, sharks shed tens of thousands of teeth in their lifetime. When a tooth falls out, the tooth behind it moves forward to fill the gap. Lost teeth do not affect the shark, but they bring joy to beach-goers who find them in the sand. Waves push the teeth around like seashells until they reach the ocean shore, where beachcombers add them to their treasures.

Things You'll Need

• Strainer (optional)
• Bucket (optional)
• Shovel (optional)

Instructions

In the Sand

1. Find an area where debris has washed ashore. Areas with seashells are ideal, but shark teeth can also avoid the undertow in seaweed and under driftwood.

2. Sift through the sand with your hands or a strainer. Work in sections to cover the area.

3. Search for black triangles or T-shaped objects of any size. Shark teeth are white, but fossilized teeth are black or gray.

In the Water

1. Walk along the shore where the water foams and stretches across the sand.

2. Watch the shallow water for tumbling objects, such as shells, sand dollars and starfish. These objects indicate that shark teeth can reach the shore at this beach.

3. Use your hands, a shovel or a bucket to scoop up anything that might be a tooth before the undertow pulls it back out. If it's not a tooth and not worth keeping, throw it back and try again.

Tips & Warnings

• As the tide starts going out, more debris will remain on the beach for you to search.

• You will have more success at beaches known for sharks or shark teeth, but the teeth can be found at most beaches.

• The tide and sand should have dulled the tooth, but it may still be sharp.

• Be aware of tidal animals such as crabs, which may not respond well to your presence.

References

• Florida Museum of Natural History -- Icthyology Department: Fossil and Modern Shark Teeth Questions/Answers