In a frightening incident caught on camera, a female snorkeller was bitten on the leg by a shark while freediving in the Fernando de Noronha archipelago off the coast of Brazil.
The Moment of the Attack
The footage shows Tayane Dalazen, 36, surrounded by several sharks before a nurse shark suddenly lunged and clamped its jaws onto her leg. The animal held on for several seconds as Dalazen struggled to free herself. Speaking afterwards, she described the terrifying moment, saying, "I knew I had been bitten. I felt it shaking me by the leg. The guide had to hit it so it would let me go."
Aftermath and Medical Treatment
Dalazen was with two friends and a tour guide when the attack occurred. After escaping the water, she was assisted by the guide and nearby fishermen. A dermatologist friend who was part of the group provided initial first aid, cleaning the wound. The 36-year-old was then transported to hospital, where she received treatment and was later discharged.
Photographs shared by Dalazen reveal numerous puncture wounds on her leg, evidence of the rows of teeth in the shark's mouth. Despite the gruesome images, she claimed the injury was not very deep.
Tourist Warnings and Official Investigation
The dive took place in a popular tourist spot in front of a fishermen's association, where people frequently gather to observe sharks. Environmentalists have previously warned about the dangers associated with the irregular feeding of marine animals in the area.
In response to the incident, The Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation has opened an investigation. Officials reiterated that feeding wild animals is strictly prohibited within the conservation area and that inappropriate interactions significantly increase risks.
On her social media, Dalazen reassured her followers that she was fine and made light of the situation, joking, "The shark must be missing a tooth." She added, "Will I have a scar? Yes. But I'll be a surfer with a shark scar. I think it even gives me some prestige."
Recent Fatal Shark Attack in US Virgin Islands
This incident follows just days after a fatal shark attack in the US Virgin Islands. Arlene Lillis, 56, from Minnesota, was snorkelling at Dorsch Beach in St Croix when she was bitten, losing an arm and later succumbing to her injuries. The grandmother, described by her husband as a "sweet wife, mother and grandmother," was a frequent visitor to the islands.
