Shark Avoidance Tips
by Ralph S. Collier, Shark Research Committee

Because of the dissimilar activities required of swimmers, divers, surfers and kayakers, suggestions for avoidance of sharks must be tailored to each group with a set of general principles that apply to all. Although these are discussed in detail in my book, I can provide those specific suggestions that would apply to the current situation at our Southern California beaches.

To provide some background, in 1970 I began a 10-year research project with a senior Cal Fish & Game biologist to determine the causes of shark attacks along the Pacific Coast of North America. During this project we determined that juvenile white sharks were being pupped from Pt. Conception south to the Mexican border during the early spring. Over the following decades I determined that this specific region of coastline provided the habitat necessary for the newborns survival.

Following birth, juvenile white sharks must begin to feed almost immediately or they will 'burn up' all of the energy reserves, which will result in death. The sharks are pupped about the same time the grunion spawns begin along our coast. These spawns provide an energy rich source of nutrients on which the young sharks can feed, at least twice a month. These spawns also attract other inshore fishes which make up the juvenile white shark diet.

The sharks that are currently off Will Rogers State Beach and the Palisades have come inshore to feed on the spawning grunion and the fishes they attract. The sharks could remain inshore for an indefinite period of time, however, they will usually depart following the last spawn. Grunion spawns usually occur over a four night period.

There are several suggestions that surfers and swimmers can use to minimize the potential of encountering one of these juvenile white sharks.

1) If sharks have been observed in a specific area you can avoid the area or be more observant while utilizing the area.

2) Remember that these sharks, although small, have the equipment to inflict a serious and potentially fatal injury.

3) Although these juvenile white sharks will usually avoid contact with a larger and potentially dangerous species (including swimmers and surfers) during periods of poor water visibility they might not see an object until they are within only a few feet. If startled they could strike out in a reflexive response to a perceived potential threat. This displacement behavior is part of their self-survival and is instinctive. Therefore, avoid areas where these sharks have been observed if visibility is less than a meter. They will normally stay well away from humans but if they can't see you they can't avoid you.

4) Do not attempt to follow, chase, or pet these small sharks. They are not pets and as noted before can inflict serious wounds. Do not strike these sharks unless absolutely necessary. They could respond violently with an aggressive attack, the result of a displacement behavior where the shark perceives the strike as a threat.

5) If you should come upon a shark, move quietly and smoothly away from the animal. Try to avoid any quick movements that might startle or attract the shark. If the shark follows you, then propel your board with smooth, rhythmic strokes. Once inside the break they will usually stop following.

6) I would suggest everyone carry on their person at all times a one meter length of surgical tubing to be used as a tourniquet in case of emergency. It is more likely that you will cut yourself on a reef or broken glass than be bitten by a shark.

As noted on my Pacific Coast Shark News page, these sightings are likely to continue until late August or early September when the grunion spawns cease. Like last year, the year before and so on, they will be back next year... same time, same place.

I hope you find these suggestions useful. Should any of your visitors wish to participate in our white shark field research they should go to my web site. If I can be of further assistance please do not hesitate in contacting me.

Kind Regards,

Ralph S. Collier
Shark Research Committee