5 Unassuming and Dangerous Wild Animals
Throughout history it has been proven that some of the greatest fighter’s downfalls attributed to them underestimating their opponent. Similarly, humans tend to suffer unfortunate casualties by wildlife, due to not being properly educated on the dangers associated. On the other hand, when we are aware and cautious, dealing with potentially life threatening creatures is not as difficult. If you were bit by a black widow, you would immediately call 911 and get treatment. Alternatively, if a bright highly poisonous cute-looking frog jumped onto your barefoot, you might just kick it off nonchalantly, but soon after find yourself paralyzed.
1. Poison Dart Frog
These species of frogs are often captivating as they have bright and uniquely colored bodies. Most of them are between 2-6cm in length and weigh about one ounce. The bright colors may attract human eyes, but in the animal kingdom the colors are actually to deter other predators. Although these frogs are not commonly found in the United States, they have been seen often in Hawaii or as household pets. If you see this uniquely colored frog, whatever you do, do not touch it!
2. Dingo
The next on our list is your wild fido or in other words, the Dingo (Carolina Dog). They live in longleaf pines and swamps and predominantly are found in Southeastern United States. They may appear like your regular domestic dog, but the feral instincts they possess are something to be weary of. They generally weigh about 30-65 pounds, but have proven that their size does not determine how dangerous they really are. They are predators of much larger animals like kangaroos that generally weigh about 200 pounds! This is definitely not a dog that you want to approach or pet. They are wild animals and have heavy instincts to defend, kill, and feed. Do not become a meal for these mean dogs.
3. Africanized Bees
What differentiates these bees you might ask? They are hybrids of Eurpoean and African bees that are extremely aggressive and will trail onto your body heat for up to a quarter-mile! Also, they tend to stay with the swarm, so if one is coming to attack you, be prepared to fight the whole pack. For those that are allergic, this will be something to be very cautious about. Every year forty to fifty people die from an allergic reaction caused by bee stings. Be careful.
4. Wolverine
Why do you think that the iconic member of the comic’s X-men is named Wolverine? This creature may not be able to regenerate health, nor do they possess Adamantium claws. However, what they do have in similarity is the stocky, muscular physique that possesses enough ferocity and power to kill much larger prey than itself. They generally are 2-4 feet in length and weigh about 20-50 pounds. They have hydrophobic hair that helps them navigate through cold weather and water. They have said to hunt animals as big as caribou and even the occasional bear! Do not underestimate this medium sized animal, because their razor sharp teeth and claws can rip you to shreds.
5. Short-Tailed Shrew
Generally, anything that resembles a rat we tend to stay away from. On the other hand, sometimes things are unavoidable. The American shrew digs holes and is an excellent hunter. They actually can eat prey as big as a bird that doubles them in size. What makes these creatures so unique is that they are one of the few venomous mammals. Their saliva is highly toxic, especially to other smaller animals. In regards to humans however, they do not pose a serious life threat to us, although the bite may hurt. Regardless, it is wise to stay away from these mole/rats because if the saliva doesn’t get you, the bacteria on all 32 of its teeth might.