Shark World 3D Explorer
Dive into an immersive 3D ocean with underwater audio, god rays, and marine life. Encounter jellyfish, manta rays, and shark species. Supports fullscreen and touch controls.
Fear Less, Understand More
Shark Attacks of the World
Shark attacks capture headlines and fuel our fears, but the reality is far less terrifying. Explore the data, understand the risks, and learn to safely share the ocean with these magnificent creatures.
80
Attacks per year
5
Fatal attacks yearly
8
Regions covered
60%
Unprovoked attacks
Putting It In Perspective
Your odds of being fatally attacked by a shark are about 1 in 4 million. Here's how shark fatalities compare to other causes of death annually in the US:
You're 6,000x more likely to die from heart disease than a shark attack.
Explore By Region
Click on any region to discover local shark species, statistics, and safety tips
North America
United States, Canada, Mexico
Australia & Oceania
Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea +1 more
Africa
South Africa, Mozambique, Egypt +2 more
South America
Brazil, Argentina, Chile +2 more
Europe
United Kingdom, Spain, France +3 more
Asia
Japan, Philippines, Thailand +3 more
Caribbean & Central America
Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica +3 more
Middle East & Red Sea
Egypt, Israel, Saudi Arabia +3 more
The "Big Three"
Three species are responsible for most serious shark attacks on humans. However, even these species rarely attack people – they prefer their natural prey.
Great White Shark
Carcharodon carcharias
Most attacks are investigatory "sample bites." Typically releases humans after realizing we're not seals.
Tiger Shark
Galeocerdo cuvier
Known for eating almost anything. Found in tropical waters worldwide. Second most dangerous to humans.
Bull Shark
Carcharhinus leucas
Can survive in freshwater. Found in rivers and shallow coastal waters where humans swim.
Stay Safe
- ✓ Swim in groups – sharks target isolated individuals
- ✓ Avoid dawn, dusk, and night swimming
- ✓ Don't wear shiny jewelry in the water
- ✓ Stay away from fishing areas and seal colonies
- ✓ Exit if you see a shark – calmly, don't splash
Why Sharks Matter
- • Apex predators keeping ocean ecosystems healthy
- • 100 million sharks killed by humans annually
- • Many species now endangered or vulnerable
- • Shark tourism brings $314M to local economies
- • A live shark is worth more than a dead one
Historical Overview
3,050
Total recorded attacks
367
Fatal attacks on record
12.0%
Overall fatality rate
The ocean is vast, and sharks are rare. By understanding these magnificent predators and respecting their environment, we can safely enjoy the world's waters while helping ensure sharks survive for future generations.
Data sourced from International Shark Attack File (ISAF) and Global Shark Attack File. Press ⌘K or Ctrl+K for quick navigation