While sharks often evoke fear, direct attacks on divers are exceptionally rare. Though shark bites occur, they are generally not aggressive acts toward divers, often stemming from specific circumstances rather than predatory intent. Divers typically navigate the underwater environment without attracting unwanted attention.
The Rarity of Shark Attacks on Divers
According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), which maintains a comprehensive database of shark-human interactions, there were 47 confirmed unprovoked shark bites worldwide in 2024, a decrease from 69 in 2023. The majority of these incidents involved activities such as swimming, wading, or surfing, rather than scuba diving. For instance, in 2022, only a small fraction of the 108 recorded shark-human interactions globally involved individuals engaged in snorkeling or diving activities.
In a 57-year period in Australia, shark attacks on divers constituted only about 3% of diving-related fatalities. The risk of a shark attack while diving is statistically low. Interactions can be classified as unprovoked, provoked (when a human initiates contact or harassment), or investigative, clarifying that not all interactions are aggressive attacks.
Understanding Shark Behavior and Triggers
Interactions between sharks and divers often stem from specific shark behaviors or human actions. Sharks may display curiosity, approaching divers to investigate their unfamiliar presence. A shark might mistake a diver for its natural prey, particularly in low visibility or when a diver’s silhouette resembles that of a seal or other typical food sources. This “mistaken identity” hypothesis suggests that poor visual acuity in some sharks could lead to misidentification.
Certain human activities can inadvertently trigger shark interest. Spearfishing, for example, can attract sharks due to the presence of struggling fish, blood, and vibrations, which mimic an injured animal. Feeding sharks, intentionally or unintentionally, can alter their natural foraging behaviors, causing them to associate humans with food, leading to a “begging behavior”. Provoking a shark by touching, harassing, or cornering it can elicit a defensive reaction. Environmental factors, such as diving during dawn or dusk when many shark species are most active, or in areas with poor visibility, can also increase the likelihood of an encounter.
Best Practices for Safe Shark Encounters
Minimizing the risk of shark interactions involves adhering to several guidelines. Divers should maintain calm, controlled movements and avoid sudden, erratic splashing, as these can attract a shark’s attention by mimicking distressed prey. Diving in groups can also provide a sense of safety, as sharks are less likely to approach a “school” of divers than a solitary individual. It is important to respect a shark’s space and never attempt to touch, feed, or provoke these animals.
Avoiding shiny jewelry or bright, contrasting colors, particularly yellow, is advisable, as these can resemble fish scales or stand out against the blue ocean, potentially attracting curiosity. Divers should also research the area before entering the water, avoiding locations known for recent shark activity, seal colonies, or active fishing operations where bait might be used. If a shark approaches, maintaining eye contact can signal awareness, and slowly backing away while keeping movements smooth is recommended. In the rare event of an aggressive approach or attack, using equipment or even hands to strike sensitive areas like the snout, eyes, or gills can deter the shark.