South America
Brazil's Recife coast has seen concerning attack clusters, while most of the continent remains low-risk. Conservation efforts are growing.
Total Recorded
128
attacks on record
Fatal Attacks
24
18.8% fatality rate
Last 5 Years
28
peak month: July
Risk Level
low
relative to global average
Sharks in These Waters
Bull Shark
high riskCarcharhinus leucas
Major concern at Recife, Brazil. Attracted by port construction and river pollution.
Max size: 11.5 ft (3.5m)
Tiger Shark
high riskGaleocerdo cuvier
Found in warmer Brazilian and Caribbean waters.
Max size: 16 ft (5m)
Blue Shark
low riskPrionace glauca
Open ocean species, rarely interacts with swimmers.
Max size: 12 ft (3.8m)
Hammerhead Shark
moderate riskSphyrna spp.
Several species found along the coast. Generally shy of humans.
Max size: 14 ft (4.3m)
Safety Tips
- ✓ Avoid Recife beaches marked as dangerous
- ✓ Don't surf near the old port area in Recife
- ✓ Swim at beaches with lifeguard presence
- ✓ Avoid murky water near river mouths
- ✓ Check local advisories before water activities
Did You Know?
- • Recife's shark problem is linked to port construction that destroyed shark habitat
- • Fernando de Noronha islands offer amazing shark snorkeling with reef sharks
- • Chile's cold waters have very few shark encounters
- • The Galápagos Islands host massive hammerhead schools
Remember: Shark attacks are extremely rare. Millions of people safely enjoy the ocean every day. Stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and respect these magnificent creatures.