7 Dangerous Animals you Should Never Touch
By
Ashley Davis
Tue, Jul 30, 2024
PHOTO: Yueke
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Our planet is home to many dangerous yet fascinating animals. Although they may seem enticing, it’s crucial to avoid coming into contact with them. Some creatures may appear cute, charming, or unusual, but that doesn’t mean they are safe. From bizarre marine life to terrifying insects, numerous species can cause severe pain or even be deadly. Here are seven of the most dangerous animals you should never touch:
PHOTO: Yueke
1. Lonomia obliqua: At first glance, this caterpillar might look like a peculiar plant formation. Its appearance resembles harmless twigs, but don’t be deceived—this caterpillar is extremely dangerous. Its spines inject venom that can lead to severe symptoms including blood clotting issues, bruising, pain, swelling, headaches, and vomiting. In the worst cases, it can cause a critical drop in platelets, potentially leading to death. Lonomia obliqua usually resides on tree branches and blends into its surroundings, so you might not realize the danger until it’s too late.
PHOTO: Yueke
2. Emerald Cockroach Wasp: If you discover a nest of these wasps at home, you should act quickly to remove it. These wasps have a shiny, metallic blue-green body that looks quite appealing, but their reproductive strategy is anything but pleasant. Native to Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands, the female wasp lays its eggs on cockroaches, and the larvae feed on the cockroach from the inside out. The venom from their sting also paralyzes the cockroach, making it an ideal host.
PHOTO: Yueke
3. Fire Coral: Although it might look like ordinary coral, fire coral contains nematocysts that cause painful stings. These bright yellow and orange corals can cause redness, swelling, blisters, and itching if touched. Divers often mistakenly think the coral is seaweed, leading to accidental contact. The resulting skin reaction can be extremely painful and slow to heal.
PHOTO: Yueke
4. Indian Red Scorpion: This scorpion has a potent venom that can cause intense pain, vomiting, breathing difficulties, and even death. Native to India and Nepal, its venom affects the lungs and cardiovascular system. While its venom has potential medical uses in research, it’s extremely dangerous and should be avoided.
PHOTO: Yueke
5. Box Jellyfish: Generally, jellyfish are dangerous, and their stings can be very painful. The Irukandji jellyfish, in particular, is exceptionally hazardous. Its venom can cause severe reactions requiring immediate medical attention. Underestimating the power of the Irukandji jellyfish is a grave mistake. Despite its small size, its sting can lead to fatal brain hemorrhages, sending 50 to 100 people to the hospital each year. If stung, the first step is to remove any tentacles stuck to the skin, pour vinegar on the sting site, and take pain relievers, as the pain is excruciating. Victims may become confused and agitated, ultimately losing consciousness, with severe risks of respiratory failure and cardiac arrest. To avoid such dangerous situations, experts recommend staying away from their habitats.
PHOTO: Yueke
6. Titan Beetle: The Titan beetle is one of the deadliest insects you should avoid. As the largest beetle in the world, it can grow up to seven inches long, with powerful mandibles capable of snapping a wooden pencil in half. The impressive strength of its mandibles comes from energy stored during its pupal stage, typically used for flying. Due to its large size, the Titan beetle cannot fly long distances and instead jumps from trees to aid its takeoff. It often makes a hissing sound before attacking and generally won’t bite unless provoked, so it’s best to avoid disturbing them.
PHOTO: Yueke
7. Brazilian Wandering Spider: Native to Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Paraguay, and other southern regions, this spider is one of the most venomous in the world. The most toxic samples were once found in a batch of bananas in South London. They prefer dark, moist places and can release a highly active neurotoxin. If bitten, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Be cautious and respect these creatures from a safe distance to avoid dangerous encounters.
Be cautious and respect these creatures from a safe distance to avoid dangerous encounters.
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