Global Shark Attacks Up 10% in 2023; Fatalities Double, Says ISAF Report
February 5, 2024The International Shark Attack File recorded a nearly 10% rise in shark attacks in 2023, totaling 69 incidents worldwide.
Shark-related fatalities doubled compared to the previous year, with Australia experiencing four deaths.
The United States and Australia were the primary locations for these attacks, with surfers being 42% of the victims.
Despite the uptick, the likelihood of suffering a shark bite remains very low.
Increased human presence in shark territories is linked to the rise in attacks.
Safety measures such as swimming near the shore and avoiding peak shark activity times can help minimize risks.
ISAF's Gavin Naylor calls for closer scrutiny of shark encounters, particularly near great white shark populations.
Summary based on 4 sources