Why are we so afraid of sharks? Is it their sharp teeth? The possibility that they could attack us? Or is it their bad reputation? Many people fear shark attacks, but the reality is, shark attacks are very rare. The reason we are so afraid of sharks is that the very few attacks that do happen get a lot of media coverage. If you ever encounter a shark, as long as you remain calm and composed, the shark will most likely swim away. Sharks do not intentionally attack humans. If someone is ever attacked by a shark, it more often than not an accident. Sharks eat fish, mollusks, and crustaceans… not humans.

Sharks Should Be The Least Of Your Worries 

Every day, we encounter animals that are much more likely to attack humans than sharks. Often these more dangerous animals are in our own homes. There is a higher probability that you will die from a wasp sting than from a shark attack. Other animals more likely to attack people are horses, cows, and dogs. Dogs are one of the most popular house pets, yet there are more attacks from them than there are from these supposedly “evil” sharks. 

Shark Species

Amazingly, there are over 500 species of sharks. Out of all of those, only 30 species have made documented attacks on humans. The shark species’ that are most likely to attack humans are Great White sharks, Tiger sharks, and Bull sharks. While it is unlikely they can and might attack you, it is still important to be aware of your surroundings when in the ocean. If you are bleeding, make sure to leave the water because sharks are attracted to blood. Next time you hear about a shark attack, try to keep the facts in mind; sharks do not intentionally attack humans and they are very unlikely to.