Experts explain why there have been more shark attacks in New York this year and provide safety tips.

Experts explain why there have been more shark attacks in New York this year and provide safety tips.

Sharks in the Waters: Understanding the Reality and Staying Safe

In early July, near New York, there was an unusual spike in the number of people bitten by sharks. Five shark encounters resulted in bites, causing concern among beachgoers. However, it’s essential to remember that such incidents are rare, and there are practical measures one can take to reduce the risk of a shark bite.

Experts have yet to determine the specific shark species responsible for the bites in New York. However, sand tiger sharks are a likely suspect. Scientists had discovered a nursery for this species off the southern coast of Long Island in 2016. While last year’s localized spike in shark bites in New York may have been unusual, it’s important to note that the total number of unprovoked shark bites worldwide averages about 74 per year.

Catherine Macdonald, a marine conservation biologist with the University of Miami, assures us that the current situation is comparable to previous years. “I would say every summer there’s a perception that there are more than normal, but this year looks very much like last year,” she says. This insight emphasizes that the occurrences near New York are not indicative of a significant increase in shark activity.

Unraveling the Reasons behind Shark Bites

With approximately 520 species of sharks, their behavior varies. Some feed on mammals, while others target fish. Sand tiger sharks, like the ones likely responsible for the recent bites near New York, primarily eat fish. However, even a fish-eating shark can mistake a human for prey in certain circumstances. Yannis Papastamatiou, an associate professor of biological sciences at Florida International University, explains that sharks often make split-second decisions when catching their prey.

Fortunately, the injuries resulting from the recent encounters in New York were not severe. Macdonald believes this is because humans are not on the menu for these relatively small sharks. Shark bites remain rare worldwide, with only 57 documented cases in 2022, five of which were fatal. Most incidents occurred in the United States and Australia.

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Sharks can venture close toshore, even in areas where beachgoers enjoy water activities like swimming and surfing. Macdonald reveals that shark nurseries are often found in shallow waters near shores, as they provide juvenile sharks with sufficient food and safety from larger predators. However, a recent study conducted in California, where beachgoers and juvenile white sharks frequently overlap, discovered a surprisingly low incidence of shark bites.

Debunking the Myth of Increasing Shark Populations

While there is evidence of shark populations rebounding in the United States, Papastamatiou clarifies that an increase in shark bites in one location does not necessarily indicate a rise in shark numbers. He points out that the number of humans in the water also plays a significant role in the frequency of interactions between sharks and humans. Over the years, beach attendance in the U.S. has steadily increased, from 105 million in 1994 to 118 million annually.

Climate change is causing ocean waters to warm, resulting in some shark species expanding their range northward. This includes species like bull sharks, which are among the three most commonly involved in unprovoked shark attacks, along with white and tiger sharks. Although this does not directly connect to the recent encounters, it hints that swimmers in the New York area may encounter different shark species in the future.

Additionally, technology plays a role in our perceptions of shark activity. With the introduction of drones, our ability to spot sharks has improved. However, it’s important to interpret drone footage accurately. In early July, what officials initially thought were 50 sand tiger sharks turned out to be a school of black drum fish. Therefore, while drones aid in monitoring ocean activities, they can sometimes mistakenly create the impression of an influx of sharks.

Tips for Staying Safe in the Water

Both Macdonald and Papastamatiou provide valuable advice for ensuring the safety of both humans and sharks during water-based activities:

• Avoid swimming in schools of fish where sharks might be actively feeding. Sharks may mistake you for prey if you find yourself in such a scenario.
• Give sharks a respectful amount of space. Most sharks encountered by swimmers are simply going about their own business and are not a threat.
• Be aware of your surroundings and stay within a reasonable distance from the shoreline. Most shark attacks occur in water less than six feet deep.
• Swim in groups whenever possible. Being with others increases the likelihood of spotting a shark fin.
• Exercise extra caution during dusk, as many shark species tend to feed at this time of day.
• Avoid swimming in murky water. Clear visibility decreases the likelihood of sharks mistaking you for food.

By following these simple guidelines, individuals can enjoy their time in the water while minimizing the risk of encountering sharks. Remember, shark bites are rare occurrences, and with the right precautions, we can coexist safely with these magnificent creatures.

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