Predation of sharks on man

Abstract

An analysis of 1,406 shark attack cases has revealed some of the factors that may impell sharks to bite man. Mostunprovoked shark attacks take place where a concentration of bathers occur, usually within 1,000 feet of the shore line.

Low frequency sound vibrations generated by bathers attract dangerous sharks probably as much as fresh blood in the water. The shark's eye is excellently adapted to distinguish, even in dim light, contrasting shades of light and dark colors, or dark shades against a lighter background, and easily detects swimmers meeting those conditions.

When attacking sharks were hit or stabbed, 61.1% were repelled, whereas 38.9% continued predaceous behavior. Sharks have attacked in water from 55°F to 87°F. Two maps show the distribution of shark attacks for the world.

Provoked shark attacks result from a shark being caught, trapped, speared, injured, hit, or in some way annoyed.

Inair and sea disasters many deaths have occurred before the survivors could reach life craft. Disaster victims in life jackets and fully clothed are less frequently attacked if they lash themselves into a small circle facing outward, with those injured placed in the center. Individuals in such a circle have warded off sharks by kicking them in the snout and head for as long as three days.