Clean, choppy, or cranking, when the surf’s up, so too are the surfers. But even the most avid surfer would steer clear of the waves when a shark is about… or would they?
In a new study from the University of South Australia, researchers found that 60 per cent of surfers are not afraid of sharks when surfing, despite more than half of them spotting a shark when out in the water.
It’s an interesting finding, particularly given people’s general fascination and fear of sharks, but as behavioural scientist and conservation psychology researcher, UniSA’s Dr Brianna Le Busque, says it’s a step in the right direction when it comes to shark conservation.
“People have long feared sharks — not surprisingly given the hype generated from modern shark movies,” Dr Le Busque says.
“But exaggerated depictions of sharks have unfairly influenced people and as a result, have damaged shark conservation efforts.
“Surfers are frequent ocean users, so they’re in a unique position to change these perceptions.
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