While it’s Shark Week on TV, sharks are more than just a screen phenomenon on the South Carolina coast. The waters off Charleston and the Lowcountry are seeing an increase in shark sightings, sparking concern among locals and beachgoers.
With more people enjoying the beaches, human-shark interactions are becoming more frequent, but is there really an increase in sharks, or are they simply being noticed more?
Why Are Sharks Appearing More?
According to Bryan Frazer, a Marine Biologist with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), although the shark population is growing, the rise in shark sightings is mainly due to warmer water temperatures.
Sharks have always been present in South Carolina’s coastal waters, but warmer temperatures attract more of them, especially as the beachfront area attracts bait and fish.
Charleston’s coast is home to 17 different species of sharks, making it a prime habitat due to the warm waters and abundant fish populations.
Common Shark Species in Charleston Waters
Some of the most commonly sighted sharks in the area are the Atlantic Sharpnose and Bonnethead sharks, which are smaller species. However, larger sharks like the Blacktip Sharks and Sandbar Sharks are also prevalent in the region. These species are not only abundant but thrive in the local ecosystem, making Charleston’s waters an ideal spot for sharks.
Shark Attacks in South Carolina
South Carolina ranks among the top 10 states for reported shark bites. Between 2012 and 2021, there were 45 reported shark attacks in the state, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File.
While this may seem alarming, shark bites are still rare. For example, in June, two shark bites were reported on Hilton Head Island, but both were non-fatal.
Frazer reassures the public, emphasizing that while it may seem like shark attacks are becoming more common, the reality is that attacks remain extremely rare.
“The risk of getting bitten by a shark in South Carolina is incredibly low,” Frazer said. “Two, three, or four bites a year is a very small risk when you consider the large number of people in the water during the summer.”
Tips to Stay Safe and Minimize Risk
If you’re concerned about shark encounters, there are some safety tips to help reduce the risk:
Avoid swimming near schools of fish or areas where pelicans are diving, as this is a sign that bait fish are present, attracting sharks.
Don’t wear flashy jewelry or brightly colored clothing in the water. These can resemble fish scales, potentially attracting sharks.
Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, when sharks are more likely to be hunting in shallower waters.
