Miami, Florida – Unprovoked shark attacks saw a slight increase worldwide last year, with new data revealing that twice as many people died from shark bites compared to the previous year.
According to the University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File, there were 69 unprovoked shark attacks in 2023, exceeding the five-year average of 63 attacks per year. Shockingly, ten of these attacks turned fatal, doubling the number of shark-related deaths from the previous year.
Researchers highlighted Australia as a region with a disproportionate number of shark bite fatalities, accounting for 22% of all attacks yet representing 40% of the total fatalities. Other countries where shark attack deaths occurred included the United States, the Bahamas, Egypt, Mexico, and New Caledonia.
The United States reported 36 unprovoked shark attacks, making up 52% of global incidents. Of these attacks, two were fatal – one in California and the other in Hawaii. Unsurprisingly, Florida led the nation in shark bites, with 16 incidents reported in the state.
The report primarily focused on unprovoked attacks, emphasizing that provoked attacks involve intentional approaches towards sharks or swimming in areas where bait is used to attract fish. In 2023, three fatalities occurred at a popular surfing spot on the Eyre Peninsula in Southern Australia, known for its seal colonies and white sharks.
Despite the increase in shark attacks, researchers stressed that the numbers observed in 2023 fall within the average range over the past decade. Most unprovoked attacks are categorized as “test bites,” where a shark mistakes a human for its preferred prey, such as a seal.
The researchers suggested various precautions for individuals to minimize the risk of a shark encounter, including staying close to shore, avoiding dawn or dusk swims, and refraining from excessive splashing. They also advised swimming with a buddy and removing shiny jewelry that could be mistaken for fish scales.
As researchers continue to monitor shark behavior and human interactions, they emphasize the importance of education and awareness to prevent shark attacks while encouraging ocean enthusiasts to enjoy the waters safely.