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Fishin' for Facts™: Are sharks bullies?

"Dear Jake, I would like to know if anywhere on this world needs sharks I think there just big bullies so if there is somewhere that needs sharks where and why?"

Though this question is from Jennifer in Canada, I often get this kind of question. We thought we'd make the answer available for every one. Hope it helps,

Good luck with your research,

    Jake, the SeaDog

Dear Jennifer,
Bullies? Not even close. Worldwide there are less than 100 shark attacks a year. Most aren't fatal – and many attacks are due to behavior on the part of humans, such as fishing or swimming where sharks hunt or breed.

    Like all predators, sharks are important because they keep prey populations healthy -- that means they help keep the oceans healthy.

    There are 350 species of sharks. Some only 8 inches long, others 45 feet (though that one doesn't have useable teeth). Only 10% of the shark species are considered dangerous to people. Sharks, though, can accuse humans of being bullies. That's because people harm, harass, and kill thousands and thousands of sharks a year. Though highly publicized and dramatized by the media, shark attacks are rare. You're more likely to be attacked by pigs, bees, or struck by lightening than by a shark.

    I hope that helps.

Jake, the SeaDog

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