Sharks rarely bite humans in the first place. And in a new study Friday, researchers have found that some of these bites are wholly defensive.

Many shark bites are acts of self-defense triggered by human actions like spearfishing or handling. Respecting sharks' space reduces risks.

In a nutshell A new study finds that about 5% of shark bites in French Polynesia occurred after humans provoked the animals, typically by spearing, harpooning, or handling them. Unlike predatory attacks,