Shark attacks hit 28-year low: what is the real risk of human attack?

That's a third fewer than a year earlier and the lowest number in 28 years. At the same time, four cases ended in fatalities, according to the Natural History Museum article.

Why the threat from sharks isn't so great

Scientists note that despite the persistent image of the "bloodthirsty predator" in film and media, the likelihood of being attacked by a shark is negligible. For example, in the US alone, where attacks are most likely, the lifetime risk of dying from a shark encounter is about 1 in 4 million. Insects (bees, wasps) and even dogs are a far more common cause of death.

When viewed globally, the numbers are even more comforting: the probability of dying from a shark is 1 in 28 million. Of the more than 500 species of shark, only 13 are in regular contact with humans, and most attacks are attributed to three "big" species: the white shark, bull shark and tiger shark. Their massive size and curiosity make them more likely to come into contact with humans, especially in areas where the water is murky or where bait fish are plentiful.

Where and why do bites occur?

• USA: There have been 28 attacks in six states, with half of all cases occurring in Florida, with its long coastline and warm waters.
• Australia: There were nine bites, mostly near popular beaches.
• Other regions: A further ten countries recorded one attack each.
• Causes: Young sharks, still learning to hunt, may "mistakenly" attack humans. Surfers and swimmers often arouse sharks' curiosity or resemble easy prey. Muddy water and dusk also increase the likelihood of contact.

How can you reduce your risk?

ISAF highlights a few rules to help avoid an unpleasant encounter:

1. Swim in groups: A shark is less likely to approach a group of people.
2. Stay close to shore: Chances of rescue are higher if help is close by.
3. Avoid the water at night and dawn: Sharks are more active and visibility is poorer.
4. No brightly coloured jewellery: Contrasting objects attract the attention of predators.
5. Do not attempt to feed sharks: This is an obvious way to provoke an attack.

Human threat to sharks

Paradoxically, it is humans who are credited with losses many times greater than those caused by sharks. By some estimates, humans kill up to 80 million sharks each year (including incidental bycatch, fishing for meat or fins). Large populations suffer particularly severe declines due to unsustainable fishing and the use of bottom trawls, which cause enormous damage to the entire ecosystem.

From a conservation perspective, sharks are the most important keystone species in the marine environment, regulating the abundance of other species and maintaining the balance of ecosystems. To support their populations, they need:

• Strict quotas: To catch certain species of sharks and a total ban on barbaric harvesting methods.
• Bycatch reduction: Fishermen should minimise incidental catchesby using more selective gear.
• Monitoring: Shark migration tracking systems help to adjust fisheries management.