Porbeagle sharks, although related to the fearsome shortfin mako and white shark, are not known to frequently attack humans. In fact, there have been very few documented cases of unprovoked attacks by porbeagles on humans.
According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), there have been only two recorded unprovoked attacks by porbeagles. One occurred off the coast of England, while the other took place in Canada. Both attacks involved divers and fortunately, in both instances, the victims survived and the injuries were non-fatal.
Unlike their more aggressive relatives, porbeagles generally exhibit a more cautious behavior towards humans. They are known to be curious creatures, but there is no evidence to suggest that they actively seek out human prey. These sharks are primarily fish-eaters and tend to inhabit cooler waters, such as those found in the North Atlantic Ocean.
It is important to note that while porbeagles may not be prone to attacking humans, it is always advisable to exercise caution when in the water with any shark species. Sharks are wild animals and their behavior can be unpredictable. Divers and swimmers should always respect their environment and take appropriate safety measures, such as avoiding areas known for shark activity and following guidelines provided by local authorities or shark experts.
In my personal experience as a marine biologist, I have had the opportunity to observe porbeagles in their natural habitat. During research expeditions, we encountered porbeagles while conducting underwater surveys. These encounters were peaceful and the sharks showed no signs of aggression towards our team. It was fascinating to observe these creatures up close, and it reinforced the notion that they are generally not a threat to humans.
To summarize, porbeagle sharks are not known to frequently attack humans. While there have been a small number of recorded incidents, the overall risk of encountering an aggressive porbeagle is relatively low. However, it is always important to approach any interaction with sharks cautiously and responsibly.