Senegal, with its sun-kissed beaches and bustling coastal towns, has long been a haven for tourists. As more people venture into its waters, however, there has been a rise in shark attacks. Our page provides up-to-date details on shark attacks in Senegal, updated weekly. While these incidents are rare, it’s essential for visitors to be informed and prepared. Dive into our information below and learn more about the evolving relationship between humans and these majestic sea creatures in this beautiful West African nation.
Recent Shark Attacks in Senegal
| Date / Time | Country / Area | Activity | Name | Sex / Age | Injury | Species |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07-01-2007 | SENEGAL | Murder | Alex Takyi | Questionable Incident | ||
| 09-01-1998 | SENEGAL ,Cap Vert Peninsula | Spearfishing | A.D | M /25 | Bitten by harpooned shark PROVOKED INCIDENT | 1.5 m shark |
| 08-01-1967 04h00 | SENEGAL ,Cap Vert Peninsula | Beach seine netting | B.D. | M | Ankle bitten | 1.8 m shark |
| 03-01-1964 | SENEGAL ,Cap Vert Peninsula | Free diving for shell | O.D. | M | Thigh & hand bitten | 3 m shark |
| 08-01-1962 | SENEGAL ,Cap Vert Peninsula | Beach seine netting | M.G. | M /23 | Ankle bitten | 3.5 m shark |
| 01-01-1961 | SENEGAL ,Cap Vert Peninsula | Free diving for molluscs | A.N. | M /20 | FATAL | > 3 m shark |
| 08-29-1960 | SENEGAL ,Cap-Vert Peninsula | Air disaster: crash of Air France Super Constellation | All 63 on board perished when the aircraft hit the water. Sharks hampered retrieval of bodies | |||
| 02-24-1960 | SENEGAL ,Casamance | Fishing | Souleymane S. | M | Calf bitten by shark caught in net PROVOKED INCIDENT | |
| 10-07-1956 18h15 | SENEGAL ,Near Dakar, Cap Vert Peninsula | Skindiving, fish at belt | k | M /19 | Right thigh bitten | Lemon shark |
| 03-11-1948 | SENEGAL ,Cap Vert Peninsula | Fragment of human foot recovered from 300-kg [662-lb] tiger shark | Shark involvement prior to death not confirmed | |||
| 12-01-1947 11h00 | SENEGAL | Fishing / diving | male | M | FATAL, right thigh bitten | Tiger shark |
What procedure should be followed to report a shark attack in Senegal?
To report a shark attack in Senegal, immediately contact the local law enforcement or coast guard, providing details of the incident including location, time, and any identifiable characteristics of the shark. It is also crucial to inform any nearby beach or resort management to warn other swimmers and water sports enthusiasts of the potential danger.
How is Senegal conducting research on shark behavior and attacks?
Senegal is advancing its understanding of shark behavior and attacks through collaborations with both local and international organizations. Research in Senegal often includes tracking the movements of sharks, studying their breeding patterns, and analyzing the circumstances surrounding shark attacks to formulate preventive measures.
What is the survival rate following a shark attack in Senegal?
While specific statistics are not readily available, it’s generally acknowledged that the survival rate following a shark attack in Senegal is relatively high. This can be attributed to both the infrequency of such incidents and Senegal’s commitment to providing swift medical assistance to victims.
