Sharks Biting Humans: Sometimes It's About Self-Defense

Rather than being intentional, forceful assaults, sharks might bite humans as a form of protection. In the press, these creatures are frequently portrayed as vicious killers. Nonetheless, such attacks are uncommon and generally do not result in death.

Scientists elucidate that sharks attack for various causes such as defending their territory, warding off rivals, and naturally, hunting. Furthermore, recent studies suggest exploring human defense as an additional potential motive, as outlined in a newly released report in Frontiers in Conservation Science .

"The notion we must contemplate is that sharks exhibit considerable wariness toward humans and are typically frightened of them," stated lead study author Eric Clua, a shark expert and researcher from Université PSL, in an interview. press release The sharks likely respond disproportionately due to an instant activation of their survival instincts. It’s very unlikely that they would factor in revenge; instead, they prioritize pragmatism for self-preservation.

Shark Attacks are Uncommon

Encounters between humans and sharks are uncommon and frequently dramatized by news outlets. Each year, roughly 100 individuals experience bites or assaults from sharks, with fatalities accounting for approximately one-tenth of these incidents.

The new research looks at a previously undocumented rapid, non-lethal type of shark bite in French Polynesia. These bites usually occurred in response to human aggression toward the shark.

Clua stated in the press release that defensive bites from sharks towards humans—a response to initial human provocation—are indeed real occurrences. He emphasized that the animals shouldn’t be held accountable or blamed when these incidents happen, as these bites are merely expressions of their survival instincts. Instead, he argued that the blame ought to be redirected.

Read More: What Causes Shark Attacks on People?

Shark Self-Defense

For this study, the research team looked at shark bite data in French Polynesia between 2009 and 2023. During that time, there were 74 reported shark bites, and four of those (about 3 to 5 percent) were likely due to self-defense.

The research indicates that self-defense shark bites usually happen when humans engage in activities that seem threatening to the sharks, like spearfishing or touching them directly. When a shark senses danger, it might respond with rapid, non-fatal nips. Simply intruding into what the shark considers its domain could provoke this kind of swift biting behavior from the animal.

"Coastal sharks like the gray reef shark are notably territorial and assertive, often venturing into human territories," Clua stated in a press release.

The researchers additionally suggest that sharks might steer clear of humans due to fear and prefer not having people intrude on their space. As a result, when they do defend themselves, this response may come across as more aggressive than necessary.

Don't Provoke Attacks

The research group examined shark attack statistics globally and specifically compared them with those in French Polynesia. They categorized the incidents as either "provoked" or "unprovoked." From 1863 up until now, approximately 7,000 shark attacks have been documented worldwide. Global Shark Attack Files Of these biting incidents, 322 of the bites were categorized as "provoked."

The study suggests that approximately 5 percent of global shark bite incidents occur as acts of self-defense, comparable to the rate observed specifically in French Polynesia. The research team believes these findings might be relevant worldwide.

To prevent clashes with sharks, Clua and the research team advise individuals to restrict their contact with these creatures. Despite having good intentions, such actions might come across as menacing to the sharks.

Refrain from making physical contact with a shark, even if it seems benign or is struggling. At any time, it might interpret this as hostility and respond consequently," stated Clua in a press statement. "These creatures can be perilous; thus, avoiding interaction is both prudent and demonstrates the respect they deserve.

If you come across a marine creature in distress, here are some steps to follow: professionals you can contact who can help.

Read More: How to React When You Encounter Beached Sea Animals

Article Sources

Our writers at The News Pulse Utilize peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, with our editors ensuring both scientific accuracy and adherence to editorial standards. Please examine the sources utilized in this piece below:

• Frontiers. The Talion law "tooth for a tooth": self-defense as a motivation for shark bites on human aggressors

A graduate of UW-Whitewater, Monica Cull wrote for several organizations, including one that focused on bees and the natural world, before coming to Discover Magazine. Her current work also appears on her travel blog and Common State Magazine. Her love of science came from watching PBS shows as a kid with her mom and spending too much time binging Doctor Who.