Shark attack deaths surge above decade average in 2025

Unprovoked shark bites worldwide increased in 2025, and fatalities rose above the recent decade average, according to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF).

The Florida Museum of Natural History’s International Shark Attack File confirmed 65 unprovoked shark bites globally in 2025, up from a lower-than-usual total in 2024 and closer to the 10-year average of 72 incidents annually. Twelve of the 2025 incidents were fatal, double the decade average of six unprovoked deaths per year.

Gavin Naylor...