Shark culls aren’t reliably safer for beachgoers, science explains

Evidence suggests shark culls do not reliably reduce bite risk. Large programs, such as Hawaii’s tiger-shark cull, killed thousands of sharks without lowering bite rates, and nets may harm non‑target wildlife with little proven safety gain. The science favors nonlethal approaches—drone surveillance, SMART drumlines, and acoustic listening systems—plus personal deterrents, improved first aid, and public education as a safer, more ecosystem-friendly way to reduce shark-bite risk while preserving marine life.