Why does the great white shark attack people when they smell blood?

The idea that great white sharks are attracted to the smell of blood is a common misconception. Sharks do not specifically target humans, and in fact, most shark attacks are unprovoked. Great white sharks are opportunistic predators, and they will prey on a variety of animals, including fish, seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals. They may be attracted to the scent of blood or other bodily fluids if it indicates the presence of a wounded animal, but they do not specifically seek out human victims.

Several factors can contribute to shark attacks, including curiosity, territoriality, and mistaken identity. Sharks may be curious about novel objects or people in their environment and may approach them to investigate. They may also be territorial and defend their territory from perceived threats, including humans. In some cases, sharks may mistake humans for their usual prey, such as seals or sea lions, and attack them accordingly.

It is important to remember that shark attacks are relatively rare, and the chances of being attacked by a shark are very low. Nevertheless, it is always important to take precautions when swimming in the ocean, such as avoiding areas where sharks are known to be present and not swimming alone.