Shark attack

Shark Attack

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A shark warning sign at Salt Rock, South Africa.

A shark attack is an attack on a human by a shark. Every year, there are numerous reports of shark attacks on humans, although the number of fatal attacks is relatively low. Shark attacks can occur in any ocean where sharks are present, but they are most common in warm, coastal waters.

Types of Shark Attacks

Shark attacks are generally classified into three categories:

• Hit-and-run attacks: These are the most common type of shark attack. The shark bites the victim and then quickly leaves. These attacks usually occur in surf zones where sharks mistake humans for prey.

• Bump-and-bite attacks: In these attacks, the shark circles and bumps the victim before biting. These attacks are more likely to result in serious injury or death.

• Sneak attacks: These occur without warning and are often the most dangerous. The shark attacks without any prior indication of its presence.

Species Involved

The great white shark is one of the species most commonly associated with attacks on humans.

Several species of sharks are known to attack humans, but the most notorious are the great white shark, the tiger shark, and the bull shark. These species are large, powerful, and often found in areas where humans swim or surf.

Statistics and Trends

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Graph showing the total number of shark attacks per year.

The number of shark attacks worldwide varies each year. While the overall number of attacks has increased over the past few decades, this is largely attributed to the increase in human population and the popularity of water sports. Fatalities remain rare, with most attacks resulting in minor injuries.

Prevention and Safety

To reduce the risk of shark attacks, swimmers and surfers are advised to avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, stay in groups, and avoid wearing shiny jewelry that might attract sharks. Beachgoers should also heed local warnings and avoid areas known for shark activity.

Historical Context

"Watson and the Shark" by John Singleton Copley, depicting a historical shark attack.

Shark attacks have been a part of human history for centuries. One of the most famous historical shark attacks was the attack on Brook Watson in Havana Harbor in 1749, which was immortalized in the painting "Watson and the Shark" by John Singleton Copley.

Notable Incidents

Coogee Beach, a location known for shark activity.

Some shark attacks have gained significant media attention due to their severity or unusual circumstances. The 1916 Jersey Shore shark attacks, for example, were a series of attacks along the coast of New Jersey that resulted in several fatalities and inspired the novel "Jaws."

Related Pages

• Shark
• Great white shark
• Tiger shark
• Bull shark
• Marine biology
• Ocean safety