The data above reflect the number of stiches divers required in mending shark bites.
Last updated: July 2, 2009

Body Parts Injured in Unprovoked Shark Attacks on Divers
(N=166 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	35.2	56
Thigh	23.9	38
Feet	22.0	35
Toe	2.5	4
Arm	52.8	84
Arm	30.2	48
Hand	13.2	21
Shoulder	6.9	11
Finger	4.4	7
Torso	42.8	62
Abdomen/stomach	8.8	14
Chest	8.8	14
Buttocks	8.8	14
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: July 2, 2009

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