As summer beach season is in full swing, shark attacks and sightings are making headlines across the United States. However, according to wildlife biologist Forrest Galante, most shark-human interactions do not end badly. Galante stresses that shark populations in some areas, like California and Florida, have rebounded due to good conservation efforts.

Shark Attacks on the Rise

The Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File reported 65 unprovoked shark bites worldwide in 2025, with nine being fatal. The United States recorded 25 unprovoked bites, with Florida leading the nation at 11 reported incidents. Despite the increase in shark sightings, Galante notes that the numbers don’t suggest sharks are suddenly hunting people in record numbers.

Galante explains that the recent spike in shark bites can be attributed to a combination of factors, including more people in the water, more cameras capturing every encounter, and more media attention. He also notes that sharks are predators and that the ocean comes with risk, but humans are not generally on the menu. According to Galante, most shark bites are a case of mistaken identity, with sharks investigating potential food sources.

To reduce the already slim chances of a negative shark encounter, Galante advises beachgoers to be smart about where and when they get in the water. He recommends avoiding the water at dawn or dusk, not swimming near river mouths, and not going swimming by themselves. Additionally, Galante suggests that wearing shiny jewelry or sequins can attract sharks, as they may mistake these items for food.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.