Shark attacks on people have risen between 2020 and 2021, but what has caused this? Indeed the University of Florida has released a study showing that in 2020 there were 52 shark attacks compared to 73 in 2021.
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Which species of shark is attacking more?
The Blacktip shark is one of the main species behind all the attacks. The Blacktip can be found in tropical and subtropical coastal waters around the world. It would appear that the sharks’ attacks were judgement errors. Indeed in the study provided by the university, there were allegedly 137 shark attacks in the world, of those 137, 73 were unprovoked. The study also shows that there were 39 provoked bites. The Blacktip shark is classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
In the US, 50% of shark attacks occur in Florida, according to the University of Florida.
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This Florida beach has the most attacks
Depending on which coast you are on in Florida, shark attacks may or may not be as frequent. However, there is one particular beach where most shark attacks occur. New Smyrna Beach has the most shark attacks and sometimes to most serious too.
The University of Florida wrote:
Every year throughout Florida, Volusia County, New Smyrna Beach, in particular, has more bites than anywhere else and it’s quite interesting that very, very few of them are very serious.
Lifeguards and animal experts always educate people on Blacktip sharks. People shouldn’t fear sharks, but should always assume that they are on the hunt for food. Here are some rules you should follow if you're taking a swim in risky waters:
- Never swim or dive alone
- Don’t stray too far out, or too deep
- Don’t swim at night
- Avoid fishing areas
