Sri Lanka, known for its pristine beaches and booming tourism, offers some of the most breathtaking marine experiences. However, as with many oceanic destinations, interactions between humans and marine life are inevitable. Recent times have seen a rise in shark attacks, causing concern among locals and tourists alike. Our page provides up-to-date details on these shark attacks in Sri Lanka, updated weekly, ensuring that you stay informed and safe during your visits to our beautiful island nation.
Recent Shark Attacks in Sri Lanka
| Date / Time | Country / Area | Activity | Name | Sex / Age | Injury | Species |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12-26-2004 | SRI LANKA ,Eastern Province | Swept out to sea by the tsunami, she clung to a log for 24 hours | Sylvia Lucas | F /11 | No injury | No shark involvement |
| 01-01-1957 | SRI LANKA ,Western Province | Fishing | F. L. Fernando | M | FATAL, but shark involvement not confirmed | Shark involvement prior to death was not confirmed |
| 01-01-1950 | SRI LANKA ,Southern Province | Spearfishing | Langston Pereira | M | No injury, but shark damaged one of his swim fins | Whtietip reef shark |
| 01-01-1950 | SRI LANKA ,Eastern Province | Shark fishing | Aboobaker | M | Buttock removed | Possibly a lemon shark |
| 01-01-1898 01h00 | SRI LANKA | Swimming | 2 U.S. Marines | M | FATAL | |
| 09-11-1896 | SRI LANKA | Diving | M | Leg severed | ||
| 05-22-1871 | SRI LANKA ,Eastern Province | Bathing | An officer from H.M. Forte | M | Severe laceration to thigh | |
| 05-11-1817 Evening | SRI LANKA ,Western Province | Swimming | William May | M /22 | FATAL | |
| 02-22-1817 13h00 | SRI LANKA | Conch diver | male | M | Abdomen bitten | |
| SRI LANKA ,Eastern Province | Spearfishing | Trevor Ferdinands | M | No injury | Blacktail reef shark | |
| SRI LANKA ,Eastern Province | Collecting ornamental fish | Rodney Jonklass | M | No injury, beat off shark with his collecting net | Blacktip reef shark | |
| SRI LANKA ,Northern Province | Fishing? | male | M | Foot bitten | ||
| SRI LANKA ,Western Province | Spearfishing / freediving | Hiran Wickremartne | M | Swim fins badly torn by the shark's teeth | ||
| SRI LANKA | She was on a ship that was torpedoes & was in the water awaiting rescue | A W.R.E.N. | F | Leg severely bitten |
| Date / Time | Country / Area | Activity | Name | Sex / Age | Injury | Species |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEYLON (SRI LANKA) ,Eastern Province | Swimming | male | M /15 | FATAL. Shark bit him in half, carrying away the lower extremities |
Have there been any initiatives in Sri Lanka to track sharks?
In Sri Lanka, there have been efforts to monitor and track shark movements as part of their commitment to safety and marine conservation. Using tracking technology, Sri Lanka aims to better understand shark behavior and patterns, enhancing safety measures and informing public awareness efforts.
What is the likelihood of experiencing a shark attack in Sri Lanka?
The likelihood of experiencing a shark attack in Sri Lanka is relatively low. Despite its extensive coastline and popularity among surfers and swimmers, Sri Lanka records very few shark attacks annually.
How does Sri Lanka support victims of shark attacks?
Sri Lanka provides support to victims of shark attacks through immediate medical attention and rehabilitation services. The government of Sri Lanka has also put in place a compensation scheme for shark attack victims and their families.
