Foreword ix 



At one point, we compiled a list of factors and conditions which 

 seemingly would encourage a shark attack. It was a long list. We decided 

 not to print it because, we realized, the list was based on huwmi thinking 

 —and not on whatever goes on in the brain of the shark. 



The shark is unpredictable. If you venture into the shark's domain, 

 vou must calculate your own chances that a shark will not single you out. 

 Your guess is as good as our advice would have been. 



Our knowledge of the Selachians is really very limited and the authors 

 of this book are most interested in gathering all further information 

 possible about them, and from all parts of the world— reports of their 

 behavior, both usual and unusual; their invasions of fresh waters; ob- 

 servations on their breeding habits; their migrations; utilization of them 

 by man; methods of capturing them; rituals that concern them; and any 

 other aspects of these remarkable animals. All information will be wel- 

 come. We are particularly interested in receiving reports of any Sela- 

 chians from the Pacific and the Indian Oceans, and the seas and the rivers 

 that are tributary to those oceans; also, from the rivers of Africa, Indo- 

 nesia, and Central and South America. We will welcome anything that 

 our readers may be kind enough to contribute, including sketches and 

 photographs. (These should be addressed to Dr. Harold W. McCormick, 

 11 Riverside Drive, New York 23, New York.) 



You may not realize the fact, but you may be the one to make the 

 definitive observation on some point that has baffled the experts for many 

 years! 



Harold W. McCormick 



