Common Shark Myths Debunked

Over the ages, sharks have been labelled the murderous scavengers of the deep and, although there is very little scientific corroboration regarding the habits of these well-adapted denizens of the sea, terrifying and inaccurate myths abound that have led to the wholesale slaughter of these beautiful creatures.

Here's a brief look at some surprising facts about the more common fables attributed to these intelligent and skilfully adapted occupants of our oceans.

Myth #1: Human beings are the shark's preferred culinary choice

One of the most treacherous legends of the endangered shark population is that humans are intentionally targeted as easy prey. The truth, however, is quite to the contrary.

Research conducted off the Cape coast recently has suggested sharks need a high fat, energy-rich diet, which is why seals, walruses and the obese elephant seal are right at the top of the shark's menu. Hors de oeuvres are likely to be oily fish like yellowtail or tuna.

It is more than likely that humans are mistaken for their more traditional prey, which seems to be backed by the fact that most human targets are discarded after the initial bite/ taster, and are in fact relegated to the trash heap of the seas as morsels unfit for the kings of the ocean.

According to international statistics on human deaths attributed to animals: hornets, wasps, bees, dogs, and in the case of Africa, hippopotami and crocodiles, kill far more people annually than sharks ever will.

Myth #2: Sharks intentionally target kayaks and surf boards to get at us

Although sharks are known to attack water-borne vessels like surf boards, kayaks and even boats, research has argued with overwhelming success that it is merely a case of mistaken identity yet again.

Many sharks attack their chosen prey on the surface from great depths and there is no doubt that the silhouette of a surf board or other small craft could easily be misconstrued as a large shiny fish, or even a seal.

It is interesting to note that many more surfers die annually from drowning or accidents than from deliberate and unprovoked shark attacks.

Myth #3: Sharks attack at high noon

Sharks, like the vast majority of carnivores, prefer to hunt when they are virtually guaranteed a meal and the hunt will normally be far more successful during the times when they are more camouflaged.

Many species of shark propel themselves from the depths of the ocean, catching their prey off guard and in the early morning and late afternoon, when light isn't directly overhead, sharks have more chance of successfully ambushing their hapless prey.

Myth #4: There are no natural enemies of sharks

Sadly, this is a total fallacy and apart from other sharks and the Killer Whale, man is the one, mortal enemy of the shark who is largely responsible for the premeditated and ruthless decimation of the species.

Shocking statistics released in 2006 show how the shark fin trade alone is responsible for the wholesale slaughter of over 73 million of these creatures each and every year. If we consider that the entire population of South Africa is currently in the region of 48 million, then the ruthless genocide of this species really hits home.

But that's not all, over 1.7 tons of shark meat is harvested annually and, although certain measures have been taken to protect these hunters of the ocean, shark meat is still considered a delicacy in many far eastern communities.