All-Girl Shark Sleepover Discovered in Australia

Researchers have stumbled upon an unusual underwater phenomenon—an all-girls shark sleepover. Port Jackson sharks were found blanketing the sea floor in Australia's Beagle Marine Park during a recent survey, according to a press release from the National Environmental Science Program published on August 14.

"A spectacular scene was relayed to us by a remotely operated vehicle equipped with seven cameras that was custom built by Boxfish Robotics in collaboration with [the University of Tasmania Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies]," said Jacquomo Monk, leader of the research team. "There were thousands of sharks tightly packed like a carpet spread across the seafloor.”

'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun': Watch Girls-Only Shark Slumber Party

Six years ago, researchers first encountered the sharks during a survey of the park. The team recently returned for two weeks, led by the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), to survey the area again and assess any changes.

The research is supported by the Australian Government’s National Environmental Science Program and a "grant of sea time from the Southern Australian Coastal Research Vessel Fleet with National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy funding."

The team's findings will be given to park managers to evaluate the park's conservation goals.

What Are Port Jackson Sharks?

The sharks are medium-sized, ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 feet in length. Native to Australia, they are primarily used for scientific research or caught as bycatch. The Florida Museum notes recent concerns about high embryonic mortality rates, suggesting the species should be monitored to prevent overfishing.

These nocturnal sharks rest during the day and hunt animals like squid at night, according to the study's press release. There are no reported attacks on humans, but they can be dangerous if provoked.

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Monk was hopeful of re-encountering the sharks, and their discovery highlighted the park's importance to the species.

“Coming upon them twice in a 3000-square-kilometre park is like finding a needle in a haystack,” said Monk. “It was very exciting when we managed to traverse over a rise in the reef to get a glimpse of the sharks snoozing 65-metres below the vessel in almost the same location as they were six years ago.

The all-female nature of the sleepover piqued researchers' curiosity.

“This poses more questions than answers for us, but we know that the males and females of this species often live apart, except when mating," added Monk. "We don’t know exactly why the females are here. Perhaps they are feasting on the local delicacy – doughboy scallops – before the long trip north to lay their eggs."

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or follow her on X, formerly Twitter , Instagram and TikTok : @juliamariegz