Shark attacks, while often the subject of fear and fascination, are actually quite rare. According to the Florida Museum of Natural History, in 2023, there were only 69 confirmed unprovoked bites globally. This number pales in comparison to other ocean-related risks.
But, despite this low probability, misconceptions and myths persist, contributing to unnecessary anxiety about these marine predators.
So, in this blog post, we’re diving deep into the facts surrounding shark attacks, debunking common myths, and exploring the factors that influence shark behaviour. We’ll also provide practical safety tips to help you enjoy the ocean with confidence.
There’s lots to chat about, so let’s get started!
Understanding Shark Attacks
Sharks attacking surfers is a rare phenomenon. Such shark attacks can be broadly categorised into two types: unprovoked and provoked bites. But, despite their rarity, these incidents often generate significant fear and intrigue, largely due to the powerful image of sharks in popular culture and the media (thanks, Jaws!).
However, understanding the nature of these attacks can help in reducing anxiety and promoting safer interactions with these marine creatures.
Unprovoked bites are defined as when a shark bites a human without any human provocation. These are usually cases of mistaken identity, often due to poor visibility or rapid movement, where the shark confuses a person for its natural prey, such as a seal or fish. This type of attack is often an exploratory bite, where the shark, upon realising its mistake, may release the person and swim away.
Provoked bites, on the other hand, typically happen when humans engage with sharks, such as trying to feed them, spear them, or otherwise harass them, leading to defensive or aggressive behaviour from the animal.
Understanding the distinction between these types of bites is crucial for developing strategies to minimise the risk of such incidents and for fostering a more balanced perception of sharks as apex predators that play a vital role in marine ecosystems.
How Often Do Shark Attacks Happen?
The International Shark Attack File (ISAF) plays a vital role in documenting and analysing shark attacks worldwide. Studying these incidents allows researchers to identify patterns, provide insights into shark behaviour, and improve safety measures to reduce future risks.
That said, the fear of shark attacks often outweighs the risk. According to the 2023 shark attack report, the International Shark Attack File recorded only 120 alleged shark-human interactions worldwide. Out of these, there were just 69 confirmed unprovoked shark bites.
When you consider the vast number of people who enter the ocean each year, these numbers are minuscule.
The United States accounted for the most unprovoked shark attacks in 2023, with 36 cases reported. Elsewhere, South Africa recorded just two unprovoked bites. Fortunately, neither incident was fatal.
Even in areas known for shark activity, the risk remains relatively low. For instance, in Volusia County, Florida, the probability of being attacked by a shark is extremely small. In fact, experts calculate that you have a one in 4.3 million chance of dying in a shark attack. To put that into perspective, you’re much more likely to lose your life to lightning, a falling vending machine, or being hit by a car on your way to the beach!
These figures underscore the fact that while shark attacks do happen, they are exceedingly rare, and fatalities are even rarer.
Global Shark Attack Statistics: Total and Fatal Incidents by Country
| Country/Territory | Total Attacks (Since 1580) | Fatal Attacks (Since 1580) | Most Recent Attack | Notable Species Involved |
| United States | 1,641 | 57 | 2023 (California) | Great White, Bull Shark |
| Australia | 790 | 151 | 2023 (Western Australia) | Great White, Tiger Shark |
| South Africa | 259 | 53 | 2023 (Western Cape) | Great White |
| Brazil | 112 | 23 | 2023 (Pernambuco) | Bull Shark, Tiger Shark |
| Bahamas | 34 | 2 | 2023 (Nassau) | Bull Shark |
| New Zealand | 59 | 9 | 2023 (Auckland) | Great White |
| Reunion Island | 56 | 11 | 2022 (Saint-Paul) | Bull Shark, Tiger Shark |
| Hawaii (USA) | 182 | 11 | 2022 (Maui) | Tiger Shark |
| Mexico | 42 | 15 | 2023 (Baja California) | Great White, Bull Shark |
| Fiji | 53 | 10 | 2021 (Taveuni) | Bull Shark, Tiger Shark |
| Egypt | 37 | 13 | 2023 (Red Sea) | Oceanic Whitetip |
| Papua New Guinea | 49 | 25 | 2021 (Milne Bay) | Bull Shark, Tiger Shark |
| New Caledonia | 24 | 11 | 2023 (Nouméa) | Bull Shark |
| Indonesia | 58 | 23 | 2020 (West Papua) | Bull Shark |
| Japan | 19 | 8 | 2016 (Hokkaido) | Great White, Bull Shark |
Common Misconceptions About Shark Attacks
One of the most pervasive myths about shark attacks is that sharks are attracted to human blood, making any open wound a beacon for these predators. However, this isn’t true. Sharks can differentiate between a human wound and the scent of a dying seal, their typical prey. This myth often leads to unnecessary fear and anxiety among ocean-goers.
Another common misconception is that all shark species are dangerous man-eaters. But, in reality, out of more than 500 shark species, only a small number pose any risk to humans. Species like great white sharks, the tiger shark, and bull sharks are responsible for most attacks, but even these species typically avoid humans.
Lastly, another myth we need to debunk is that sharks constantly patrol beaches and shorelines. This is false. While some sharks search near shore for food, they’re typically not lurking just off popular swimming areas. Many shark species prefer deeper waters far from human activity.
Factors Influencing Shark Behavior
Shark behaviour is influenced by a variety of environmental factors, including weather patterns and oceanographic conditions. Water temperature, currents, and even prey availability can affect where sharks are likely to be found. These conditions can lead to year-to-year variability in shark-human interactions.
For example, warmer water temperatures can increase shark activity in certain areas, leading to a higher number of interactions with humans. Similarly, changes in ocean currents can bring sharks closer to shore. Additionally, shifts in prey distribution due to changing ocean conditions can cause sharks to venture into unfamiliar territories, sometimes near popular swimming and surfing areas.
As mentioned above, most shark attacks result from mistaken identity, so wearing bright-coloured swimwear can help to distinguish you from a shark’s natural prey, potentially reducing the risk of an attack.
Another factor to consider is the time of year; during certain seasons, such as the breeding season or migration periods, sharks may exhibit different behaviours, including increased aggression or territoriality, which could heighten the likelihood of encounters.
It’s also worth noting that if you’re worried about sharks, you might want to avoid areas with concentrated fish or ongoing fishing activities, as these can attract sharks.
In addition, sharks tend to be more active at dawn and dusk, so refraining from surfing during these times is a good way to decrease the chances of encountering a shark. It’s also advisable to avoid wearing shiny jewellery, as the glint in the water can resemble fish scales, potentially attracting sharks.
Lastly, surfing in groups is always advisable if you need assistance out in the water. But not only that, where sharks are concerned, they’re less likely to approach a group – a win-win!
By understanding and respecting these behavioural patterns, you can make informed decisions that help to minimise the risk of a shark encounter.
What to Do If You’re Attacked by a Shark
Should the worst happen and a shark approaches you, knowing how to react is imperative. Remain calm and avoid appearing distressed, as panic can trigger the shark’s predatory instincts.
Try to maintain eye contact with the shark and avoid making any sudden movements that might provoke it further. Sharks are often more curious than aggressive; most interactions with humans result from curiosity or mistaken identity rather than a deliberate attack.
However, if the shark becomes aggressive and bites, your survival may depend on your ability to defend yourself. Fight back with everything you have, aiming for the shark’s most sensitive areas, such as its eyes, gills, and snout.
Use any available objects you have on you, like a camera or snorkel, to strike these vulnerable spots. The goal is to cause enough discomfort or injury to make the shark retreat.
Remember, even though the situation is dire, your determination and quick thinking can significantly deter the attack and save your life.
The Bottom Line: Sharks Aren’t as Much of a Threat as You Might Have Thought
The statistics presented throughout this blog post underscore the rarity of shark attacks. The 2023 shark attack report confirms that the overall risk of sharks remains low, providing a reassuring perspective on this topic.
By understanding the nature of shark attacks, debunking common myths, and following the safety tips mentioned above, we hope that we’ve been able to quell any anxiety you might have had about potential shark encounters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before we say goodbye, below we thought it would be helpful to answer some of the most frequently asked questions we hear about shark attacks:
Are shark attacks usually fatal?
Shark attacks are usually not fatal. In 2023, there were only 14 confirmed shark-related fatalities worldwide. Most shark bites don’t lead to death.
Where are shark attacks most common?
Shark attacks are most common in the USA and Australia.
What can I do to avoid a shark attack?
To decrease the chance of a shark attack, swim in groups, try to avoid surfing during dawn and dusk, and refrain from swimming in areas with concentrated fish or fishing activities.
