Shark Assaults in Florida: Intersection of Vibrant Hues and Attractants Cause Frenzy
Every summer, the coastline of Florida draws tourists seeking sand, sun, and surf. In Volusia County, particularly New Smyrna Beach, an additional, less desirable spectacle often arises: shark attacks. Known as the "shark bite capital of the world," Volusia County consistently leads the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) in unprovoked shark bites [1][2].
Despite the fear-provoking label, sharks are not the mindless carnivores they are often portrayed as. Generally, they prefer smaller prey and stay out of human swimming areas unless provoked or attracted by specific conditions. However, in Volusia County, human activity and favorable environmental factors create a convergence of interests between man and shark, resulting in an above-average number of encounters.
Researchers attribute the county's high number of shark bites to a combination of factors. The area offers ideal conditions for both sharks and humans. Its long coastline and relatively warm waters attract many tourists seeking recreation in the sun [3]. The predilection of sharks for coastal regions and an abundance of fish in the area provide ample opportunity for encounters with humans. Moreover, the surf mecca of New Smyrna Beach attracts an active community of surfers, increasing the likelihood of shared interactions with marine life, including sharks [2].
Sharks venture closer to shore on occasion due to seasonal feeding, spawning behavior or the steep drop-offs some species use to hunt [2]. Surfers, in particular, may be at risk since fish scales glinting in the sunlight or humans splashing near drop-offs can pique the curiosity of nearby sharks [2]. While most shark bites are minor and unprovoked fatalities are rare [2], these encounters can be alarming and pose a risk to anyone venturing into the water in Volusia County.
Elsewhere in Florida, even areas like the Florida Panhandle are not immune to shark attacks. For example, in 2024, three unprovoked attacks were recorded in just one day near South Walton [4]. Nationwide, the U.S. led the world in shark bites in 2024, with 14 bites recorded in Florida, four in Hawaii, and four in Texas [3]. While the number of shark attacks globally in 2024 was lower than previous years, Florida's numbers remained higher than the 10-year average [3].
In Florida's waters, blacktip sharks are believed to be responsible for a majority of the documented bites [3]. Bull sharks, capable of swimming in fresh water, and tiger sharks, known for their wide-ranging diets, are also found in Florida's coastline and have been linked to human attacks [3].
To minimize the risk of an encounter with a shark, researchers suggest following a few simple precautions. Swimming at dawn, dusk, or during periods of heavy fish activity should be avoided [3]. Refraining from wearing shiny jewelry or bright clothing and keeping a safe distance from schools of fish can help reduce the likelihood of attracting the attention of a shark [3]. Swimming in groups and heeding posted warnings can further reduce the risk of an encounter [3].
In conclusion, despite the occasional high-profile event, shark attacks are much rarer than most people fear. While the infamous "shark bite capital" label does not officially recognize New Smyrna Beach as such, its high number of documented shark bites has earned it a scary reputation. By being aware of the increased risk of encountering sharks in certain areas and taking appropriate precautions, visitors can enjoy the beaches of Florida along with the magnificent marine life while minimizing the risk of an unwanted interaction.
[1] Florida Museum of Natural History. (n.d.). International Shark Attack File (ISAF). Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/sharks/isaf/
[2] Jacksonville.com. (2024). Shark Attacks in Florida's Volusia County Raise Concerns amongst Residents and Visitors. Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://jacksonville.com/news/2024-05-15/shark-attacks-in-florida-s-volusia-county-raise-concerns-amongst-residents-and-visitors
[3] National Geographic. (2022). Shark Attacks: Myths and Misconceptions Debunked. Retrieved March 22, 2023, from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/sharks/shark-attacks-myths-and-misconceptions-debunked/
[4] World Health Organization. (n.d.). Shark Attacks. Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://www.who.int/zooseotics/diseases/sharkattack/en/
In Volusia County, the convergence of humans and sharks is increased due to factors such as favorable environmental conditions, tourist activities, and a surf mecca like New Smyrna Beach, leading to a higher number of shark encounters. This region is not only attractive for its sunny weather and surf, but also for its abundance of fish and coastal location, which are ideal for sharks.
Advances in science and technology have provided insights into shark behavior, demonstrating that occasional ventures closer to shore can occur due to seasonal feeding, spawning behavior, or the presence of steep drop-offs needed for hunting. Understanding these factors can help swimmers and surfers minimize the risk of an encounter with sharks by Swimming at certain times or in certain conditions and taking other precautions recommended by researchers.
