Encounters with sharks, while often a source of apprehension, are statistically rare events. Despite the low probability, understanding how to react can contribute to safety in marine environments.
Understanding Shark Encounters
Shark encounters often stem from curiosity, mistaken identity, or territorial responses. Sharks may investigate unfamiliar objects, using their mouths as sensory organs to explore their surroundings. This can lead to what are termed “hit-and-run” bites, where a shark quickly releases a human after a single bite, realizing it is not a typical food source. In murky water or areas with breaking surf, a shark might mistake a swimmer’s movements for those of its natural prey, such as a thrashing fish.
Sharks may also exhibit specific behaviors that indicate their presence or potential agitation. Circling patterns can suggest a shark is assessing its environment or a potential food source. Signs of increasing stress or aggression can include a “hunch” where the shark arches its back and points its pectoral fins downward, or rapid, jerky movements. These displays are often a warning, indicating stress or aggression, and may be a precursor to more direct interaction if ignored.
Reducing Your Risk
Proactive measures can significantly lower the likelihood of a shark encounter. Avoid swimming during dawn, dusk, or at night, as many shark species are more active and feed during these low-light periods. Poor water visibility, such as near river mouths, after heavy rainfall, or in areas with algal blooms, can increase risk because sharks may have difficulty identifying objects, leading to mistaken identity bites. Also avoid areas with signs of baitfish or fish feeding activity, indicated by diving seabirds or schooling fish.
Entering the water with open wounds or while menstruating is discouraged, as a shark’s acute sense of smell might detect blood, potentially attracting them. Wearing shiny jewelry can also be a factor, as its reflection may resemble fish scales, drawing a shark’s curiosity. Swimming alone increases risk, as sharks are often more likely to approach a solitary individual. Staying in groups provides a greater collective presence and may deter a shark.
Responding to a Shark Sighting
Remaining calm is a primary step if a shark is sighted while in the water. Panicking or making sudden, erratic movements can draw the shark’s attention and potentially escalate the situation. It is important to maintain eye contact with the shark, as this signals awareness and can deter an aggressive approach. Sharks often prefer to attack from behind, so keeping the animal in view allows for better assessment and response.
If the shark appears curious but not aggressive, slowly and calmly back away towards shore or a boat, whichever is closer. Avoid turning your back on the shark as you retreat. If the shark approaches directly or displays signs of aggression, such as a hunched posture or pectoral fins pointed down, assume a defensive stance. If a shark charges, striking its sensitive areas like the snout, eyes, or gills can cause it to disengage. Using any available object, such as a camera or pole, can provide an advantage in defending oneself.
Actions to Avoid
Certain reactions during a shark encounter can increase risk and should be avoided. Splashing erratically or creating excessive noise in the water can mimic the distress signals of injured prey, potentially attracting the shark’s interest. Rapidly swimming away or attempting to outswim a shark is generally ineffective, as sharks are faster and this action can trigger a predatory chase response. Turning your back on the shark removes it from your sight and prevents you from monitoring its movements or intentions.
Panicking can lead to poor decision-making and hinder an effective response. Attempting to feed or touch a shark should never be done, as it can provoke a bite and alters the animal’s natural behavior. Playing dead is not an effective strategy with sharks, as they are not scavengers and this behavior might make you appear more vulnerable. Instead, maintaining a calm, purposeful demeanor and being prepared to defend yourself if necessary are more appropriate responses.