The bull shark is one of the deadliest sharks in the
world and belongs to the group of only three sharks that are responsible for
most attacks on humans.  This group of sharks contains the Bull Shark,
Tiger Shark, and Great White Shark.  The bull shark may be the least known
of theses three sharks, but may be the most dangerous because of its choice to
live in shallow coastal areas close to humans.  The bull shark is also one
of the few species of sharks that preys on animals that are its same size or
even larger. 

According to
the International Shark Attack File bull sharks are responsible for at least 69
unprovoked attacks on humans around the world, 17 of which resulted in fatality. 
In reality this species is likely responsible for many more, and has been
considered by many experts to be the most dangerous shark in the world.  It's
large size, occurrence in freshwater bodies of water, and its proximity to
numerous human populations in the tropics makes it more of a potential threat
than either the white shark or tiger shark.  Since the bull shark occurs in
numerous third world regions including Central America, Mexico, India, attacks
are often not reported.  The bull shark is also not as easily identifiable as the
white or tiger shark, so is likely responsible for a large percentage of attacks
with unidentified culprits. 

Photo by: Tobey Curtis

How to avoid an encounter with a Bull shark

1. 
Avoid swimming near the mouths of rivers and estuaries with murky water, because
this is where Bull sharks have been known to live. 

2. 
Do not swim near schools of fish near the shore, because these schools are often
pursued by predators. 

3. 
Be cautious of spear fishing, because Bull sharks have been known to approach
spear fishermen and their catch. 

4. 
Do not showboat around sharks in the water like many adventurers do on
television. 

5. 
Remember that the Bull shark is not a monster and will only attack if provoked,
or if you are confused as prey.