Shark sightings in France: No need to panic

As holidaymakers head to the French beaches this month, Clémentine Séguigne, who works in shark conservation, explains why an increase in shark sightings is far from an ‘invasion’.

Media reports have noted a rise in shark sightings near the French coast in recent years, sparking public attention and concern. 

However, this increase may not be as dramatic as it appears and can largely be attributed to the growing role of social media in amplifying these events. 

Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have made it easier for shark encounters to go viral, turning what might once have been a rare or minor event into a widely discussed phenomenon. 

Dramatic images and videos posted by beachgoers often fuel sensational coverage, making it seem as though sharks are much more common in coastal areas than they really are

Also, while the presence of sharks near shorelines may appear concerning, it is important to remember that many shark species are endangered. In the Mediterranean, for example, populations of sharks have significantly declined over the past century, with certain species, including the great white shark, now classified as critically endangered. 

As a result, sightings of sharks near the coast could also signal the diminishing numbers of these species. Rather than an indication of a shark "invasion," they could be a reminder of the fragile state of marine biodiversity.

Sharks: No significant threat 

In general, sharks in France do not pose a significant threat to people. Shark attacks in French waters are extremely rare, and the risk is minimal compared to other marine activities. 

The Mediterranean is home to a variety of shark species, but most of them are harmless to humans, with some, like the basking shark, entirely non-threatening.

It is also worth noting that sharks play an important role in marine ecosystems. Rather than worrying about them as a danger, the real concern in France is their declining populations. 

Many shark species are at risk of extinction due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. As their numbers dwindle, the focus should be on conservation efforts to protect them.

Firstly, we need stronger regulations on fishing. A significant number of sharks are caught as bycatch or mainly targeted for their fins. Protecting these animals from overfishing is vital to their survival.

Expanding marine protected areas (MPAs) is another essential strategy. These protected zones give sharks a safe space to live, breed, and feed without the pressure of human activities.

Finally, we need to work on public education and awareness. Many people are fearful of sharks due to sensational media portrayals, but in reality they are not nearly as dangerous as they are often made out to be.

While occasional shark sightings in coastal areas might raise some eyebrows, there is no need for undue alarm. Sharks are not actively seeking human interaction, and the ongoing conservation of these creatures is far more important than fearing them.

Read more: Which are the most dangerous animals in France and where are they?

Sharks: Stay calm

Last year, newspapers reported a confirmed sighting of a great white shark in waters off the south of France. 

The 4m-long shark was filmed by a fisherman off the islands of Porquerolles and Port-Cros, part of the Port-Cros National Park in Var, at the start of November.

Experts at the Muséum national d'histoire naturelle in Paris, and the Groupe Phocéen d'Étude des Requins (Phocean Shark Research Group – GPER) confirmed the shark in the video was a great white. While there are more than 50 species of shark in the Mediterranean, according to GPER, great white sharks are very rare and are classed as an endangered species, with more than 90% estimated to have disappeared.

Since the Middle Ages, only around 100 shark attacks have been recorded in the Mediterranean and France. The last fatal attack took place off the coast of Italy in 1989, according to GPER. 

If you see a shark near a French beach, the best thing is stay calm and swim slowly back to shore if you feel uncomfortable. 

Sharks are generally not interested in humans, so there is no need to panic. Once you are safely out of the water, inform a lifeguard or local authorities about the sighting. 

It is a good idea to swim in areas where lifeguards are present, as these zones are monitored for any potential dangers. If you are swimming with others, staying together can help reduce any risk, as sharks are more likely to approach individuals swimming alone.

If you are observing a shark from the shore, keep a safe distance and stay aware of your surroundings.