Global Shark Attacks Rise: What’s Behind the Increasing Threat?
Shark attacks worldwide saw a significant increase in 2025, with 65 unprovoked incidents reported globally, compared to 47 in 2024. This represents a notable jump from the five-year average of 61 cases. Tragically, the number of fatal shark attacks also nearly doubled, rising to 12 from 7 in the previous year.
The Rising Toll: Australia and the US Lead in Incidents
Australia experienced a particularly grim year, with five of the 12 global fatalities occurring within its waters. A total of 21 shark attacks were recorded in Australia, a substantial increase from the nine incidents reported in 2024, where there were no fatalities. The United States also saw a high number of attacks, with 25 cases reported – a slight decrease from the 28 recorded in 2024.
Florida continues to be a hotspot for shark encounters, accounting for 11 of the US attacks, with six occurring in Volusia County. A tragic incident in November near Crowdy Bay, New South Wales, saw a 20-year-old woman fatally attacked by a bull shark although swimming with a companion. In the US, a 55-year-old triathlete, Erika Foksa, died in December near Santa Cruz, California, after disappearing during a group training session.
Why the Increase? Factors at Play
Experts suggest several factors may be contributing to the rise in shark attacks. Gavin Naylor, director of the Florida Museum’s International Shark Attack File, emphasizes that shark bites are influenced by animal biology, climatic conditions, and the number of people in the water. The increasing population of great white sharks, particularly in areas frequented by surfers in Australia, is also believed to be a contributing factor.
A recent discovery in the Antarctic Ocean, far from sunlight, revealed a large sleeper shark, challenging previous assumptions about the region’s biodiversity. While this discovery doesn’t directly relate to the increase in attacks, it highlights the ongoing demand to understand shark populations and behavior.
Firsts and Rare Encounters
2025 also saw several “first” incidents. South Africa recorded its first documented attack by a dusky shark. Similarly, Israel experienced a fatal incident in April, though it was classified as provoked and therefore not included in global statistics. Canada reported its first unprovoked attack since 2021, where a great white shark bit a man’s stand-up paddleboard, but did not cause injury.
The “Big Three” and Global Populations
The “big three” shark species – great white, tiger, and bull sharks – remain the most likely to inflict serious injuries. However, reports indicate that global shark populations are still significantly below historical levels due to overfishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are shark attacks becoming more common? Yes, the number of reported unprovoked shark attacks increased in 2025 compared to 2024.
- Which areas are most dangerous for shark attacks? Florida and Australia consistently report the highest number of incidents.
- What can I do to reduce my risk of a shark attack? Be aware of your surroundings, avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, and don’t swim alone.
- Are sharks becoming more aggressive? There’s no evidence to suggest sharks are becoming inherently more aggressive, but changes in their populations and human behavior may lead to more encounters.
Stay informed about the latest developments in shark behavior and safety by following reputable sources like the International Shark Attack File and local marine authorities.
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