Social media information campaign FAQs

Why create another shark spotters data base?

Yes, there are a number of shark data bases out there, but none have focussed on the behaviour of the shark. Our aim is to create a database that supports the devlopment of our behavioural AI.

You tell us when, where, what the shark was doing and what was happening around it and we add the environmental conditions of the area for the day.

What species are you focussed on and why?

Focus one is White Sharks first and foremost. However, whilst we are gathering data, it is better to try and gather information on the other two high risk sharks (Tigers and Bulls) now, rather than to re-do the activity in a year's time.

We have a whole range of mitigation devices including shark nets, smart drumlines, VR4G buoys, etc. Why focus on a behavioural system?

Current mitigation systems are expensive, very limited in their geographical scope and produce significant bycatch including whales, dolphins, turtles and non-target shark species.

Studies conducted in NSW have shown that White Sharks are regularly (if not always) present in the vicinity of swimmers, however, shark attacks are rare. This clearly demonstrates that proximity is not a significant risk factor (though required for an interaction) and thus proximity warnings have limited use.

Research in regard to the environmental conditions in which shark attacks take place have provided a 'blueprint' of ideal attack conditions, however, the conditions in which attacks take place are not rare.

Thus, given that White Sharks are regularly in the proximity of swimmers and that the conditions in which attacks take place are not uncommon, however, attacks are very rare, the proposal is that a behavioural prediction model would be of use to provide a measure of risk of attack.

Join us
If you have had any interaction with a shark (White, Tiger, or Bull) please tell us the details in our facebook group at Shark behaviouror simply email us at info@espyocean.com.au