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11 Reasons Why Sharks Are Not Scary AF

You’ve probably seen Jaws so are probably aware that sharks are brutal human-killers, right? Wrong. Read the full story at MTV.co.uk.

14th Julyis Shark Awareness Day, so we're happy to bring you the definitive guide to why sharks are nowhere near the brutal human-nibblers you've seen in things like Jaws etc.

So, first up. They're not ALL like this all the time.

In fact, humans are more of a threat to sharks than they are to us...

Sharks really aren’t as scary as you’d think. According to shark conservation charity Bite Back, you’re more likely to be struck by lightning than attacked by sharks.

Not just that. More people die from bee stings than shark attacks. That’s right, sharks are less dangerous than bees.

Sharks are also less dangerous than coconuts: more people die each year from coconuts falling on their heads than from shark attacks.

According to charity The Shark Trust, there haven’t been any unprovoked shark bites in British waters since records began way back in 1847.

The most widely recognised type of shark is probably the Great White (aka Jaws). But there are around 400 different species of shark and not all of them are as scary as they’re made out to be in the movies.

The smallest species of shark grows to a maximum length of around seven inches.

And the biggest type of shark - the whale shark, which can grow to around 50 feet long - feeds on plankton and tiny fish. Like this cheeky guy who decided to grab a snack straight from a fishing net.

Some sharks, like the Basking Shark which is the second largest fish in the world, have such tiny teeth that they’re basically useless.

And Hammerheads are just REALLY cool.

Some sharks are actually pretty cuddly critters. Like this leopard shark who loves to be tickled:

But, seriously, all species of shark are at risk from humans and many are listed as vulnerable or endangered species. Overfishing is a huge problem!

There are a few easy ways you can help protect these stunning creatures.

You can make changes in your lifestyle byreading the Marine Conservation Society’s Good Fish Guide to help you choose sustainable fish and avoid plastic bags and products which containmicrobeads.

Or you can get involved in the community by volunteering to help clean up a beach or by choosingsustainable tour operators for your holidays; for example, you can take part in responsible whale shark research and photography experiences through Aqua-Firma.

Also, make sure you avoid shark fin soup and other products that are harmful to sharks!

Happy Shark Awareness Day - however you decide to celebrate!

Written by Melissa Hobson

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