Author(s)

Erich Ritter^1,2, Raid Amin¹

¹Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of West Florida, Pensacola, USA.
²Shark Research Institute Florida Office, Pensacola, USA.

This study examines the approach patterns of sharks in the vicinity of human divers, focusing on the diver’s body orientation and a shark’s distance from the sea bed when approaching the diver. A standardized video method was used to record the scenario of diver(s) kneeling in the sand while being approached by sharks. This showed that sharks had a preference to move in from outside a diver’s field of vision while larger sharks stayed closer to the sea floor. This may simultaneously enhance camouflage while reducing potential escape routes for the approaching animal. This stealth behavior raises the question of how sharks may interpret humans when moving towards them.

Blind Spot, Camouflage, Escape Routes, Shark, Stealth

Ritter, E. and Amin, R. (2015) A Study of Shark Stealth Behavior in the Proximity of Divers. Open Journal of Animal Sciences, 5, 224-228. doi: 10.4236/ojas.2015.52025.