The data above reflect the number of stiches divers required in mending shark bites.
Last updated: January 29, 2008

Body Parts Injured in Unprovoked Shark Attacks on Divers
(N=159 who had some part of their body injured; individuals may be represented in more than one category)

Body Part	Attacks (%)	# yes
Leg	83.6	133
Calf/knee	36.5	58
Thigh	22.6	36
Feet	22.0	35
Toe	2.5	4
Arm	52.8	84
Arm	28.9	46
Hand	12.6	20
Shoulder	6.9	11
Finger	4.4	7
Torso	39.0	62
Abdomen/stomach	8.8	14
Chest	8.2	13
Buttocks	7.5	12
Back	6.9	11
Waist	4.4	7
Genitals	3.1	5
Head	4.4	7
Head/neck	4.4	7

The data above reflect the parts of the body that are attacked the most. The legs are the easiest parts the shark can get to, with the arms as the second easiest. So, as the data reveal, legs and arms make up the biggest percentage of attack items.

Last updated: January 29, 2008

© International Shark Attack File Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida