Global shark attack hotspot revealed – are you vacationing there?

FLORIDA is the world’s shark attack hotspot, researchers have revealed.

The Sunshine State had more reported bites in 2022 than anywhere else.

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None of the 16 attacks on humans were fatal, but two – likely by bull sharks – resulted in amputations.

The number hit a ten-year low worldwide, according to the University of Florida’s International Shark Attack File.

There were a total of 57 unprovoked bites, mostly in the US and Australia.

Five were fatal, up from nine deaths in 2021 and ten the year before.

Experts say the decline may reflect a global decline in shark numbers.

and dr Gavin Naylor, director of shark research at the Florida Museum of Natural History, added: “In general, shark numbers in the world’s oceans have been declining, which may have contributed to the recent doldrums.

“It’s likely that deaths have gone down because some areas have recently implemented strict beach safety protocols, particularly in Australia.”

dr Naylor added, “Juveniles tend to be more adventurous and try things that an adult shark would not do.

“When fish are particularly dense where people swim and visibility is poor, then young sharks that lack the experience of older animals are more likely to mistake a swimmer’s foot for their intended prey.”