9781422276808

Tiger sharks like to eat albatross, but won’t turn down other delicacies.

SHARK MYTH: WHEN TIGER SHARKS ATTACK HUMANS, THEY’RE JUST CONFUSED. While many shark attacks on humans are simply a case of mistaken identity, scientists believe that this is simply not true for tiger

shark attacks. Tiger sharks have unusually keen senses (they’re known for their fantastic low-light vision and sense of smell), and know exactly what they’re attacking as they’re sneaking up on their prey. Unlike great white sharks, it’s unlikely that a tiger shark will take a bite of something and choose not to finish their meal. While scientists cannot be completely sure of what’s going on inside a tiger shark’s brain, it appears that the vast majority of the time, tiger shark attacks are intentional—either because they are trying to protect themselves or because they want something to eat. Tiger sharks will also bite humans if they feel that the human poses a threat, either to their physical safety or to the success of their hunt. Tiger sharks will indeed feast on people when given the opportunity—as well as dogs, horses, and tires. While many animals are simply confused when they attack humans, tiger sharks do not fall into this category! SIDEBAR

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