Mark Healey swimming with a tiger. Photo: Team Effort Films
It is officially Sharktober on the Hawaiian islands. This is the month of every year where we pay close attention to our intuition and those sharky vibes when we’re in the water.
It is well known in Hawaii that October through the end of the calendar year is a time of increased shark activity. Historically, it’s been the month with the most recorded unprovoked shark bites. Interestingly enough, although October has been the month with the most bites, not one recorded attack since 1980 has ended in a fatality.
Hawaiian oral history says that when the Willi Willi flower blooms, the shark bites. That happens to coincide with tiger shark pupping season. With extensive shark tagging research, scientists at the University of Hawaii have determined that approximately 25% of the tiger sharks migrate from the northwest of the Hawaiian Islands in the fall months to give birth. The higher concentration of sharks during these months in combination with a greater need to feed (due to decreased energy stores) is believed to make these mothers particularly “hangry” and more likely to make a mistake in their food choice.
Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources has been quite meticulous in documenting and recording each attack:
Courtesy of Division of Aquatic Resources, Hawai’i Department of Land and Natural Resources
Shark bites are extremely rare; statistically, you are more likely to die of a lightning strike, by fireworks, sand entrapment, or by a boating accident in the state of Florida alone. In 2017, you are more likely to fall due to the abuse of the 2nd amendment.
Sharks are such amazing, prehistoric creatures. They play a critical role in the ecosystem and the health of our oceans. Many populations of sharks are endangered or near extinction due to man’s fear or greed, but as ocean lovers, we have to recognize and accept that we are entering into their home.
So, for the next three months, listen to that Hawaiian wisdom; while the Willi Willi tree is in bloom, take extra caution in the water. Hawaii is also approaching its rainy season, so be vigilant about the water clarity. Be cautious about surfing in murky waters or stream mouths. Utilize beaches with lifeguards and trust your gut.
Note: Catch more information about Sharktober here and here.
