Mauricio Hoyos is a marine biologist with a passion for studying sharks. Recently, he experienced something no one hopes to face: a shark attack. In September, while conducting research near Cocos Island in Costa Rica, a female Galapagos shark, about 3 to 3.5 meters long, bit him. This incredible encounter left him with deep scars but also a profound respect for the animals he studies.
Hoyos recalls the moment vividly. As he prepared to tag the shark, it unexpectedly lunged at him. He ducked instinctively, feeling the pressure of its powerful jaws on his face. Miraculously, the shark released him after a brief moment. “When it let go, I could see its eye looking back at me,” he said. It was a moment both terrifying and awe-inspiring.
Interestingly, Hoyos didn’t blame the shark’s behavior. He likened the bite to a dog quickly snapping at another dog – a response to a perceived threat. He explained, “It didn’t want to hurt me; it was just a warning.” This perspective is crucial. According to experts, shark attacks are often misunderstandings. Research shows that most bites stem from curiosity rather than aggression.
Hoyos’s survival can be attributed to his years of training. After being bitten, his air supply was compromised. He quickly switched to a backup breathing apparatus but realized it was malfunctioning. Using all his diving knowledge, he managed to swim to the surface, despite being injured and blinded by blood. “I knew I had less than a minute to make it,” he said, recounting how he focused on swimming towards the light above.
Once back on the boat, adrenaline masked his pain. The impact of the shark bite felt like a car crash, leaving him with significant injuries. Fortunately, paramedics were waiting for him when they docked. Unlike another young man who faced a similar incident in 2017, Hoyos’s recovery was quick and efficient, with doctors amazed at his progress.
Now, just weeks after the attack, Hoyos displays his scar with pride. “It’s a battle scar that reminds me of the connection I have with these creatures,” he shares. He believes sharks play a critical role in maintaining ocean balance, a perspective supported by environmental studies highlighting the importance of shark populations in marine ecosystems.
Hoyos plans to dive again soon. He feels an even stronger desire to advocate for shark conservation. “Many think the oceans would be better off without sharks, but that’s simply untrue,” he insists. He hopes to return to the very spot where he encountered the shark that day, eager to continue his research and spread awareness about these magnificent creatures.
In a world where shark populations are declining due to human activity, Hoyos’s story serves as a reminder of the respect these animals deserve. Every scar has a story, and for Hoyos, the tale of his encounter is just beginning. He aims to continue his work, promoting a better understanding of sharks and their vital role in the ocean’s ecosystem.
