5 Sharks Safe For Humans To Swim With
Sharks have a violent reputation, which makes them both frightening and interesting to humans. These special fish have numerous species. While the great white shark and tiger shark both attack numerous humans every year, most sharks don't pose the same threat. Learn more about five sharks safe for humans to swim with.
Whale Shark
Whale sharks are the largest shark species of them, making them particularly intimidating. Luckily, these polka-dotted giants are docile with small teeth. They pose very little threat to humans.
Whale sharks prefer warm, tropical climates. Whale sharks can be found throughout the world, including:
- Australia
- India
- Maldives
- South Africa
- Belize
- Mexico
- Galapagos Islands
- Southeast Asia
- Indonesia
Bamboo Shark
Bamboo sharks are bottomfeeders that slide across the ocean surface in search of small prey. Unlike the whale shark, these sharks are much smaller. Humans have been known to pet these sharks, but you'll have a better chance of spotting them at night as many of them are nocturnal.
Nurse Shark
Nurse sharks are one of the more dangerous sharks you can swim with. These sharks, while usually safe around humans, have been known to nip at intruders if provoked. Do not attempt to pet a nurse shark. If you do get bit by a nurse shark, don't expect it to let you go without a fight. Nurse sharks are notorious for maintaining a tight hold on their prey, sometimes requiring professional assistance. Nurse sharks tend to move across the ocean floor slowly until they swiftly move to catch their prey.
Goblin Shark
The goblin shark has some of the most intimidating teeth of all shark species. It's also several feet long, adding to the fear people experience when they encounter it. Luckily, the teeth aren't made to attack humans. When a goblin shark attacks, the teeth can't penetrate a typical wetsuit. it's also highly unlikely to encounter a goblin shark. They reside in a place known as the "midnight zone" that never sees sunlight, making it an unideal vacation destination.
Angel Shark
Angel sharks look like a stingray. However, they have sharp teeth. These sharks roam the ocean floor looking for prey. They are well camouflaged unless you look carefully. If you get the opportunity to swim with angel sharks, don't antagonize them, and you won't experience a problem.
Sharks aren't inherently dangerous. In fact, they are beautiful creatures. Just follow the rules when you go on a shark-swimming tour.
Contact a company like One Ocean to learn more.