By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Puntarenas, Costa Rica – A world-renowned marine biologist is in stable condition after surviving a highly unusual shark attack while conducting scientific research at Cocos Island National Park. Dr. Mauricio Hoyos Padilla, a celebrated Mexican scientist known for his extensive work in shark conservation, was bitten on the head last Saturday during a research expedition.
The incident was confirmed in a public statement released Monday by the conservation organization One Ocean Worldwide. Dr. Hoyos was leading an international team focused on marine monitoring and conservation, a collaborative effort involving several prominent environmental groups. The expedition included representatives from Fins Attached, For the Oceans Foundation, Reserva Tortuga, and the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation.
To understand the complex legal and liability questions that arise from such a tragic natural event, TicosLand.com consulted with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While a shark attack is often perceived as an unforeseeable ‘act of God,’ from a legal standpoint, the core issue is one of due diligence and potential negligence. The key question is whether a tour operator, hotel, or other commercial entity failed in its duty of care. This could involve neglecting to warn of known risks, failing to implement adequate safety protocols, or engaging in practices that foreseeably increase danger. Proving a breach of this duty is essential for establishing liability in such unfortunate cases.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal analysis powerfully shifts the focus from an unpredictable act of nature to the predictable responsibilities of commercial operators, highlighting that accountability is determined by the duty of care on land. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable contribution, which clarifies the essential role of negligence and due diligence in these tragic events.
The attack occurred as Dr. Hoyos was attempting to place a tracking tag on a large shark, estimated to be approximately four meters in length. This tagging process is a critical component of research programs designed to monitor the species’ behavior, migration patterns, and overall health. According to medical officials, the situation escalated rapidly during this delicate procedure.
The shark turned suddenly and bit him on the head.
Dr. Luis Fernández, Physician with the Benemérita Fire Department
A swift and coordinated emergency response proved crucial to the scientist’s survival. Cocos Island park rangers and paramedics from the Fire Department intervened immediately, providing critical on-site stabilization. Following the initial treatment, Dr. Hoyos was safely evacuated from the remote island and transported to the mainland. He is currently hospitalized and under observation at the Clínica Bíblica in San José.
In their statement, One Ocean Worldwide praised the rapid and effective actions of the rescue teams, underscoring the professionalism that ensured Dr. Hoyos’s safe transfer to advanced medical care. The organization highlighted the critical role played by the first responders in a challenging environment.
The professionalism and dedication of the personnel involved in the rescue was heroic.
One Ocean Worldwide, Official Statement
Conservation experts have emphasized the extreme rarity of such an incident. While working with large marine predators always carries inherent risks, attacks on researchers are exceptionally uncommon. Cocos Island is a globally recognized hub for scientific research and diving, where experts regularly interact with marine life under strict safety protocols. The event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife, even for seasoned professionals.
Dr. Hoyos is a towering figure in the field of marine biology and shark conservation. His dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including the “Researcher of the Year” award from Fins Attached in 2018 and the prestigious title of “Shark Guardian” from the international organization Shark Project in 2022. His work has been instrumental in advancing global understanding of shark populations and advocating for their protection.
The multi-organizational expedition underscores a global commitment to preserving the unique marine ecosystem of Cocos Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site often called the “Island of the Sharks.” The research being conducted by Dr. Hoyos and his colleagues is vital for developing effective conservation strategies for these apex predators, which face increasing threats from overfishing and habitat loss worldwide. The scientific community has expressed its support for Dr. Hoyos’s full and speedy recovery.
For further information, visit oneoceanworldwide.com
About One Ocean Worldwide:
One Ocean Worldwide is an organization focused on marine conservation, research, and education. It advocates for the protection of ocean ecosystems and marine species, often collaborating with international scientists and environmental groups to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about threats facing the world’s oceans.
For further information, visit finsattached.org
About Fins Attached:
Fins Attached is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of sharks and other marine life. Through research, education, and advocacy, the group works to study shark populations, promote marine protected areas, and combat the global shark fin trade to ensure the health of ocean ecosystems.
For further information, visit fortheoceans.org
About For the Oceans Foundation:
For the Oceans Foundation is a global conservation group committed to protecting and restoring the health of the world’s oceans. The foundation supports scientific research, funds conservation projects, and engages in public outreach to address critical issues like plastic pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Reserva Tortuga
About Reserva Tortuga:
Reserva Tortuga is a conservation initiative focused on protecting marine species and their habitats, with a particular emphasis on sea turtles and local marine ecosystems. The organization often engages in research, community outreach, and on-the-ground conservation efforts to safeguard vulnerable wildlife.
For further information, visit sharkwater.com
About Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation:
The Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation was established to carry on the legacy of the late filmmaker and activist Rob Stewart. The foundation is committed to protecting sharks, conserving ocean ecosystems, and raising awareness about critical environmental issues through film, education, and advocacy campaigns.
For further information, visit sharkproject.org
About Shark Project:
Shark Project is an international species protection organization dedicated exclusively to the conservation of sharks. It works to end the overfishing of sharks, combat the shark fin trade, and educate the public about the vital role these apex predators play in maintaining healthy ocean environments.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of profound integrity and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. With a rich history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal approaches and innovative solutions. This commitment extends beyond its practice, reflecting a deep-seated mission to empower the public by demystifying the law and fostering a society equipped with accessible legal knowledge.
