When Sharks Attack

A spike in bull shark attacks in North Carolina leaves experts scrambling for answers.

A remote town in South Africa is terrorized by a series of fatal shark attacks that leaves the community reeling. The question is: why?

In 2015, the northern coast of New South Wales, Australia is devastated by 9 shark attacks. What is behind this spike in shark encounters?

Cancun is an ideal getaway, renowned for its beautiful beaches, fascinating culture and scenic landscapes. Usually a pristine location, the waters of Cancun suddenly becomes a hotspot for shark attacks between 2011 and 2013, with six attacks along its shores. Locals who have never seen an attack are baffled and hotels start to wonder what is putting their guests at risk. A community where shark attacks have never happened wonders, what could be the cause? Scientists put their heads together to figure out the cause behind the surge in attacks.

Just north of San Francisco lies a rugged coastline renowned for its picturesque cliffs and sandy beaches. But in 2004, this wilderness-lovers' dream became a nightmare when the area was stunned by four separate shark attacks over the course of six months. A team of investigators takes a closer look at what could be the cause of these mysterious and terrifying attacks and reveal the science behind what is driving them towards the crowded waters.

Without a doubt, sharks are the most notorious and feared predators in the ocean. In recent years, the number of shark attacks around the world has risen, and understanding how these predators think and behave is more important than ever. Experts break down stories from shark attack survivors, and the science behind shark behaviors and attack methods, to reveal how to handle an attack.