Shark attack hotspots revealed: Florida leads, Mediterranean sighting causes concern

Florida has once again been identified as the global capital of shark attacks, recording 11 incidents in 2025. This figure represents 17% of all unprovoked shark bites worldwide, with more than half occurring in Volusia County on the state's east coast. The International Shark Files database, which tracks incidents from the 16th century onwards, focuses on 'unprovoked attacks' – cases where humans did not provoke the animal. This excludes interactions like spearfishing or freeing animals from nets. Despite the high number of incidents in Florida, experts are urging calm regarding a recent sighting of a large great white shark in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and Tunisia. Dr. Lorene Smith, a shark expert from Saltwater Life, stated that the shark was recorded far from coastal resorts and that such encounters should inspire respect, not fear. The ocean is their natural habitat, she explained. In contrast, travelers to Florida are advised to exercise greater caution. The year 2025 was noted as unusually deadly for shark attacks globally. Although the total number of attacks (65) was slightly below the ten-year average of 72, nine incidents resulted in fatalities, compared to an average of six. The United States recorded the highest number of incidents with 25, making up 38% of the global total. Australia followed with 21 attacks, significantly higher than its five-year average of 13, and also reported the highest fatality rate at 56%.

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This shark was recorded very far from coastal resorts and there is no reason for panic. The ocean is their natural habitat and such encounters should inspire respect and appreciation, not fear.