Shark encounters in Hawaii are increasing not only because tiger sharks prefer swimming around specific waters, but also because recreational activities by humans are continuing to thrive in shark territories.
With that in mind, how do we prevent potentially dangerous shark encounters?
First, Acknowledge This: Human Activities Up Risks For Shark Attacks
Hawaii state officials have turned to scientists from the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology for help due to the rise of shark attack incidents in the state in 2012 and 2013.
After years of careful study, a team of researchers led by University of Hawaii researchers Kim Holland and Carl Meyer uncovered interesting movement patterns of tiger sharks that would explain why more shark attacks or encounters are occurring.
As ocean temperatures rise, typical shark habitats also expand. This in turn causes the numbers of encounters between sharks and humans to increase. Some of the encounters have resulted in injury, and marine biologists say humans share the blame.
As more visitors engage in ocean recreation annually, activities such as paddleboarding or surfing take place right in the environments where sharks feed, socialize, and live.
The researchers discovered that sharks in Hawaiian waters are naturally inclined to stay in Maui because of the food supply and coral reefs, and because the area is a popular mating season hangout for the marine animals.
As for the rising numbers of shark bites, the new study found that the trend reflects the increasing amount of time spent at sea by humans, which was a confirmation of a study by the International Shark Attack File.
Meyer said the factors that caused the upward trend are mainly more people in coastal areas going into the ocean and performing a wide array of recreational activities.
Second, Reach A Peaceful Coexistence With Sharks
The most important takeaway from this study is not to fear sharks, but to learn how to coexist with our aquatic neighbors, experts said.
The key to peaceful coexistence is educating ourselves about the nature and habits of sharks.
For instance, humans should stay away from murky water or avoid swimming near dead animals, which could possibly be shark prey. These animals include seals, crustaceans, birds, turtles, sea snakes and squid.
State officials also reminded the public to be careful when entering the ocean.
Bruce Anderson of the Division of Aquatic Resources said swimming in the ocean is equal to swimming in a wilderness environment where sharks are natural residents.
"We have to accept that they're there and take precautions to avoid encounters," said Anderson.
