WATCH: Large group of bull sharks spotted circling in Tampa Bay
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - A large group of what appeared to be bull sharks were spotted circling in Tampa Bay, Florida, on Monday.
WFLA viewer Jay Jiranek spotted the sharks while walking along the Cypress Point Park Trail in Tampa.
Bull sharks are one of the most common species of sharks to frequent the bay, according to TampaFishing.com. Other shark species include blacknose, spinner, blacktip, lemon, bonnethead and nurse, hammerhead and tiger sharks.
While it's common to spot sharks in the bay, bull sharks are considered "more aggressive than most spark species," and are responsible for many unprovoked attacks on humans worldwide, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's website states.
Some experts also consider bull sharks more dangerous than great white or tiger sharks.
Although swimming is permitted in Tampa Bay, the Florida Museum suggests beachgoers follow these tips to reduce interactions with a shark:
- Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present, and do not wander far from the shore.
- Do not swim alone as sharks are more likely to approach a lone person.
- Areas between sandbars or near steep drop-offs are favorite spots for sharks, so be careful.
- Avoid being in the water at dawn or dusk and at night when many sharks are feeding.
- Stay out of the water if bleeding from an open wound.
- Avoid shiny jewelry as the reflected light may resemble fish scales.
- Avoid areas with signs of bait fishes or feeding activity. (Diving seabirds are good clues.)
- Avoid water used by anglers, and be careful when waters are murky.
- Avoid uneven tanning, and bright-colored or high-contrasting clothing as sharks see contrast well.
- Do not bring attention to yourself with excessive splashing.