Ocean

[peter]

WHITE SHARKS AND DRONES

In some parts of the world, drones are used to protect swimmers and surfers. White sharks often swim very close to shore, especially near seal colonies. Like many predators, they seem to be opportunists. The shark in the video immediately attacked a seal when the opportunity presented itself:  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtSAnt2HnhU

Every now and then, white sharks attack swimmers, divers or surfers. Unprovoked attacks are few and far between. Not seldom, the victim is bitten once only. Most experts think these attacks are a result of a mistake, but there's no reason to assume that visual hunters like white sharks should be involved in mistakes. Maybe most attacks are a result of opportunistic behaviour. 

Predators are observers. Most of them investigate situations. In a somewhat cautious way, one has to add. A bit like big cats, so it seems. Both big cats and white sharks are stalkers. Not seldom, they surprise the object that attracted their attention. 

Those who know agree white sharks like surprises. The reason is it often results in an advantage. For a professional hunter like a white shark, a 'feel' is the best way to get to good information. If close contact feels ok, a bite could be the result.

Compared to marine mammals and fish, humans are much more 'bony'. At least, that's what shark authorities say. This, they think, could be the reason white sharks only bite once. Every now and then, however, there is no cautious bite but a deliberate and often devastating attack. Some of those attacked in this way have been completely eaten. Although different from the usual method used, it would fit an opportunist like a white shark.

It's not known why white sharks at times attack and consume humans. What we know is they only very seldom attack. People wonder why sharks attack humans, but the question is why sharks only very seldom use their advantage:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VrXp_PHUOUI

To finish the post, another example underlining the point made on sharks and humans. In the video, a tiger shark is seen swimming close to shore. Those enjoying the water don't know the shark is less than 10 yards away. The shark, big enough to cause considerable damage, isn't interested:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSYJwLBVtto Reply