As I walked along the beach in San Diego this weekend, I noticed shark eggs buried in almost every patch of seaweed.
Even though they are easily missed because most of their outer lining blends in with the color of seaweed, the number I could point out was striking.
I began to think that if I’m seeing this many shark eggs washed up on shore, the amount that are hatching in the water must be copious.
Despite this, and being a surfer, I have never had an alarming encounter with a shark.
Still, that doesn’t mean they aren’t out there. I’ve seen my fair share of small sand sharks and heard stories from friends in close-call situations.
In this article, we will look at everything you need to know about sharks and shark attacks in San Diego and know how to respond if you find yourself caught up in one of these situations.
How Many Shark Attacks Happen in San Diego?
San Diego has two large nurseries located in Del Mar and Torrey Pines, in which surfers and swimmers reportedly get into close contact daily.
According to the International Shark Attack File, there have been 20 unprovoked shark attacks in San Diego County since 1926 (98 years). Even though that is less than one attack a year, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected.
Just recently on June 2, 46 year-old Caleb Adams was swimming with his open water swim group off of the Del Mar coast when he was attacked by a shark.
Adams remembers “tussling with the animal for what was seconds,” and screaming “help” and “shark,” according to an interview with Gadi Shwartz, NBC News Correspondent.
Kevin Barrett, Adams’ friend, heard his scream and swam him in as “blood was pouring out of his chest.”
Adams was rushed to the hospital and stitched up after the incident.
Though the years of data have shown that this is a rare occurrence, any of us could have found ourselves in Adams’ or his friends’ shoes and would have needed to know the proper way to respond.
What Kind of Sharks Live In San Diego?
The most common shark in the San Diego area is the leopard shark. You can spot these sharks at the bottom of the sand near your feet or below your surfboard on a clear day.
While the initial sight of a shark may be scary, these aren’t the sharks that you want to swim away from. Leopard sharks are typically more scared of you and aren’t known as a species that is harmful to humans.
Other common and timid sharks include horn and sevengill sharks.
Apart from these sharks, there are rare sightings of larger and more aggressive sharks further offshore. These sharks may include great whites, blue, mako, or thresher sharks.
All of these sharks are rare to see as a normal beachgoer, but advisory signs and word of mouth will warn you when they are spotted in the area.
What Months are Sharks Most Active?
Though you may see the more common species all year round, most sharks enjoy the warmer temperatures of the summer months.
The best months for you to spot a leopard shark are from June to October, especially the months of August and September.
The same goes for the larger species, like the great white, that you may want to avoid. These sharks most commonly make their rounds during August and September.
How to Protect Yourself From a Shark Attack
The best ways to protect yourself from a shark attack are staying close to shore, avoiding dawn or dusk, swimming or surfing in groups, and steering clear of fishing areas.
As stated above, the more aggressive species of sharks like deeper water further off the shore. With that, if you can still see or touch the bottom, you have a better chance of avoiding these species.
Another realistic precaution to take is going in the ocean when the sun is fully out. Sharks choose their prey based on their visions. So, at times like dawn or dusk when a shark's vision is more likely to be impaired, they are more likely to mistake you for prey.
Although these aren’t foolproof solutions, your odds of encountering a shark or fatal attack are significantly reduced by following these steps.
What to Do If You Witness a Shark Attack
Stay Calm
The most important thing to do during a stressful situation is to remain calm. If you’re panicking, it makes it exponentially harder to get yourself or others to safety.
Alert Lifeguards
Attempt to make contact with a lifeguard or anyone else on shore. The quicker that the party injured can receive help, the better.
Help the injured
If you’re in close proximity and it is safe to approach the person who was attacked, aid them in swimming to shore and getting the medical attention needed.
Stay out of the water
Refrain from re-entering the water until the shark moves on to a different location.
Shark Attacks in San Diego: Conclusion
Shark attacks are statistically uncommon but not impossible in San Diego.
Local beaches such as Torrey Pines and Del Mar are nurseries where you can snorkel and witness the beauty of these creatures but also their ability to be powerful and mighty.
Now, after gaining all this information, don’t let the thought of sharks scare you into never touching the water again.
Instead, let this produce a healthy fear of these respected animals.
Follow our guides of how to protect yourself, be alert, and enjoy swimming in an ocean with fascinating creatures!