In one of the largest atolls on earth, Rangiroa, a small uninhabited island exists. Three hours by boat from the nearest village, this tiny island pops out of the lagoon. There are no humans here, only sharks. The shallow water only deep enough for these young, new predators to patrol in search of food. It is a safe haven from the even larger sharks patrolling the deep. Their fins often breaking the surface in large numbers as they navigate their sanctuary and enter the circle of life together. Small crabs, shrimp, octopus, and various crustaceans hide in the sand as these tiny sharks require more and more sustenance as they continue to grow. One day, these sharks will outgrow this lagoon and be promoted to the deep. They will be on their own then. But for now, their home is Shark Island.

By Kori Burkhardt