In a nutshell A new study finds that about 5% of shark bites in French Polynesia occurred after humans provoked the animals, typically by spearing, harpooning, or handling them. Unlike predatory attacks,

Many shark bites are acts of self-defense triggered by human actions like spearfishing or handling. Respecting sharks' space reduces risks.

Sharks are often perceived as the ultimate beasts, an image largely imposed on them by the media. Yet, shark bites are rare—only around 100 or so happen every year, and just around 10% are fatal.