By Christina Maxouris | CNN
Summer is here, and with it comes increased shark activity that has captured America’s attention. Recent shark sightings and interactions have made headlines, leading to temporary beach closures in popular tourist destinations. In response to five non-fatal shark bites reported over two days on Long Island, New York Governor Kathy Hochul deployed dozens of shark-monitoring drones to parts of the state. While it may seem like shark encounters are more frequent this summer, experts suggest that shark populations off US coasts are slowly rebounding after decades of decline, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts. Dr. Bob Hueter, chief scientist for OCEARCH, a nonprofit ocean research and education organization, stated that shark numbers are growing, although they are still far from reaching historical levels. Contrary to common belief, an increase in shark populations does not necessarily make American beaches more dangerous. However, it may require some adjustment in our perception and behavior.
Experts tentatively believe that shark populations in American waters have increased compared to the past few decades. Until the late 1960s, shark numbers remained relatively stable off US shores. However, they began to decline dramatically due to overfishing, bycatch, habitat destruction, and declines in prey availability. By the late 1980s, approximately two-thirds of shark populations in American oceans had disappeared. Conservation efforts, such as the 1993 Fishery Management Plan for Sharks of the Atlantic Ocean, contributed to the recovery of shark populations. This plan established restrictions for all US Atlantic federal shark fisheries and banned shark finning, the hunting of sharks for their fins. The US also established the prohibited shark species group in 1997, which banned the possession, sale, and purchase of certain shark species. While progress has been made, it’s important to note that globally, shark numbers remain grim, with over a third of sharks, rays, and chimeras threatened with extinction.
Counting sharks is a challenging task. Methods like tagging or collecting information from fishermen have limitations, as they may not capture an accurate representation of the overall population. Information from lifeguards, pilots, and other individuals regularly observing the waters can also provide insights. Reports from these sources have suggested an increase in shark sightings over the past decade. However, it’s crucial to remember that the risk of being bitten by a shark remains exceptionally low. Sharks are not interested in eating humans, and incidents of unprovoked shark bites are rare. Between 2012 and 2021, there were an average of about 76 unprovoked shark bites globally per year, with less than 8% being fatal. Despite the increasing presence of sharks in the water and more people enjoying beaches, the rate of shark bites has not significantly increased.
To coexist with sharks safely, it’s important to have accurate information. Drones, like those deployed in New York, can be valuable tools for informing beachgoers about the presence of sharks nearby. Additionally, individuals can take personal precautions, such as staying in clear water and avoiding areas with low visibility. If schools of fish are spotted, it’s advisable to either leave the water or move further away to minimize any potential accidents. Understanding sharks and their behaviors can significantly reduce the risk of incidents. It’s essential to recognize the progress made in shark conservation and adjust our perception and behaviors when interacting with the ocean. Instead of fearing sharks, let’s appreciate their presence while maintaining a safe distance.