Shark Bites Increase as Influencers Ignore Safety Warnings for Selfies
According to the International Shark Attack File, there has been an increase in shark bites as social media influencers disregard safety precautions while filming. Shark researcher Kristian Parton likened this risky behavior to attempting to pet a lion in the Serengeti. Earlier this year, Brazilian influencer Tayane Cachoeira Dalazen experienced a nurse shark bite near Fernando de Noronha, an event that was recorded on video. Although the annual incidence of shark bites remains low at approximately 70, specialists caution against dangerous interactions. Ocean Ramsey, a former model, emphasizes her focus on conservation, but Dr. Jack Cooper contends that handling sharks is detrimental to their health. In February 2022, a Canadian tourist lost both hands while trying to take a selfie with a bull shark, prompting experts to advocate for caution around marine creatures.
Key facts
- International Shark Attack File reports an increase in shark bites linked to influencer photography.
- Tayane Cachoeira Dalazen, a Brazilian social media personality, was bitten by a nurse shark.
- The bite occurred off Fernando de Noronha in the Atlantic Ocean.
- Shark scientist Kristian Parton compared the behavior to touching a lion's face in the Serengeti.
- The number of shark bites per year remains steady at around 70.
- Ocean Ramsey, a former model, swims with great white sharks and claims conservation motives.
- Dr. Jack Cooper disputes that touching sharks aids conservation.
- A bull shark bit off both hands of a Canadian tourist trying to take a selfie in February last year.
- Dalazen shared photos of her wound on Instagram.
- The BBC interviewed multiple influencers who post shark interaction videos.
Entities
Artists
- Kristian Parton
- Tayane Cachoeira Dalazen
- Ocean Ramsey
- Dr. Jack Cooper
Institutions
- International Shark Attack File
- BBC
Locations
- Brazil
- Fernando de Noronha
- Atlantic Ocean
- Canada
- Serengeti