Have you ever wondered which animals in the United States are ranked as the most dangerous? And what even makes them qualify for this list?
Well, I’ve thought about this quite a lot and I had to do my research and share it with you. Some of these animals will most definitely shock you, so let’s rank them and talk about how to avoid them! Let’s go!
10. Moose
Habitat: Maine, Washington, Alaska
This magnificent creature can definitely turn your mountain hike into a nightmare. These giant animals are a wonderful sight, but be aware, they can become aggressive.
If they feel threatened or need to protect their calves, moose will likely attack humans. Moose attacks are fairly common in Alaska, so if you’re a devoted hiker, be cautious. You don’t want to find yourself face-to-face with an angry moose.
9. Grizzly Bears
Habitat: Alaska, Wyoming, Idaho, Washington, Colorado, Alaska
Grizzly Bears are definitely the first animals that cross my mind when I think of wilderness. These massive animals can weigh more than 600 pounds and reach nearly eight feet in height. Quite scary, right?
But if you encounter a Grizzly Bear mama protecting her cubs, you might have found yourself in some serious trouble. They will aggressively defend their babies if they feel threatened.
If you enjoy hiking through these parts of the United States, always carry a bear spray with you.
8. American Alligator
Habitat: Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina
Lurking at the edge of the swamp, the American Alligator will strike if you get too close. These territorial creatures are often seen basking in the sun along the Florida Everglades. Be cautious near swamps—alligators can move faster than you’d expect!
7. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Habitat: North Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Louisiana
The list isn’t complete if I don’t count the most lethal snake in the United States. The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is responsible for numerous fatalities in the U.S.
This snake prefers scrublands, barrier islands, and pine flatwoods. The best warning you have is the sound of their rattle. Always watch your step, and if you hear that rattle, move away quickly!
6. Brown Recluse Spider
Habitat: Southern California, Ohio, Kansas, Alabama, Texas, Florida, Kentucky
The Brown Recluse Spider is another little creature you don’t want to encounter. While all the other animals we’ve mentioned so far live deep in the forest, the Brown Recluse Spider can make himself at home in your house.
They like to hide in places where they can make webs and catch prey, like any other spider. A single bite from this spider can damage blood vessel walls and lead to painful skin ulcers.
If you are not sure if you were bitten by the Brown Recluse Spider, seek medical help just in case.
5. Arizona Bark Scorpion
Habitat: Arizona, Sonoran Desert
This little, yet dangerous scorpion is best recognizable by its light brown color. Being nocturnal animals, during the day they will hide under rocks or even inside your home.
They will sting only if they feel threatened, but their sting is venomous and painful. I always check my tent and sleeping bag when I camp in this area. Wouldn’t want the Arizona Bark scorpion as a roommate, trust me!
4. Gila Monster
Habitat: Southwestern US
This little creature is one of the few dangerous lizards living in the United States. They are desert dwellers, known for their vicious bite!
To me, they looked even cute at first, but once I learned that they are as venomous as a rattlesnake, the cuteness quickly took a dark turn. If you encounter them, I have some good news. They are relatively slow, so you’ll have enough time to make a run for it!
3. Farm Animals
Excuse me, what? I know, I was as shocked as you are once I learned that farm animals such as cows, sheep, and horses are causing fatalities nationwide. But how is that possible?
Horses, goats, and cows are unpredictable animals. If unhappy, a horse might kick you with its hind legs. The same goes for cows, however, they are also known to stampede over people if they feel threatened.
If you encounter wild horses, or farm animals by the road, it’s best to admire them from far away!
2. Bees
Without bees, the world would be a grim place. They’re responsible for pollination, but did you know that they cause a huge number of fatalities in the U.S. every year?
The reason for that is quite simple – most people have no idea they’re allergic to bees. If you’re stung by a bee and experience trouble breathing, nausea, dizziness, or a headache, seek medical help right away.
1. Deer
Another animal that surprised me with its fatality rate is the sweet and gentle deer. The number of car accidents involving deer in the U.S. is unbelievably high.
If you’re driving through an area with a high deer population, stick to the speed limit and stay alert, you never know when Bambi might jump out!