Most creatures in the animal kingdom will bite if provoked or threatened, and biting down on other animals is often how predators kill their prey. But some animals seem to have more of a reputation than others for biting the humans they come in contact with. They may not have the strongest bite forces in the world, but they can be counted on to stir up trouble if you get too close to them. Keep reading as we explore our top 10 list of animals that bite people.
What You'll Learn Today
1. Snapping Turtle
Snapping turtles are found throughout much of North America. There are two genera of snapping turtles comprising four total species.
These freshwater turtles are known for being combative when on land. While they will typically try to flee from danger and avoid conflict, they are not afraid to use their powerful, beak-like jaws to deliver painful bites if they feel threatened.
If you see a snapping turtle, be sure to give it plenty of space to avoid startling it and provoking it to bite.
2. Snake
There are nearly 4,000 species of snake found throughout the world. All snakes will bite if disturbed, but some are more harmful than others.
Snakes deliver painful bites by injecting their fangs into their victims. Some species produce venom that can kill humans or cause major health impacts; others are virtually harmless, though infections and allergic reactions can still occur.
If you receive a snake bite, seek medical attention. If possible, contain the snake or be ready to describe it for the sake of proper identification and bite treatment.
3. Spider
There are more than 50,000 known spider species in the world. Spiders are often mistaken as insects, but they are actually arthropods.
Like snake bites, some spider bites are more dangerous than others. Some spiders inject venom that can cause extensive tissue damage and death; others are basically harmless aside from the risk of infection or allergic reaction.
Some of the most dangerous spiders in the world are widows, brown recluses, and funnel-web spiders.
4. Crocodile
Crocodiles are known for their large mouths, powerful jaws, and rows of sharp teeth. There are at least 13 known species of crocodile in the world, with the Nile crocodile being the most dangerous biter.
Crocodiles have an impressive bite force of up to 3,000 psi or more. The Nile crocodile is known for being highly aggressive and territorial; as such, it is responsible for attacking and biting more humans than any other crocodile species.
If you ever encounter a crocodile in the wild, the best thing you can do to avoid getting bitten is to give it plenty of space.
5. Alligator
There are two alligator species, one in North America and one in Asia. These animals look similar to crocodiles with their large, powerful jaws and sharp teeth.
Alligators are not quite as powerful or aggressive as crocodiles, but they still have a nasty bite force of up to 2,980 psi. They can cause serious injury or death if you get too close to them.
Alligators do have one vulnerability: their weak jaw-opening muscles. It is possible for a human to prevent an alligator from biting by clamping its jaws shut.
6. Komodo Dragon
Komodo dragons are found on several Indonesian islands, most notably Komodo. They are the largest lizard species in the world and are known for having a powerful bite.
Komodo dragons are apex predators due to their large size and hunting ability. They have sharp, curved, serrated teeth enabling them to kill and eat various prey animals, and they occasionally attack humans.
Komodo dragons also inject venom that reduces the blood’s ability to clot. Learn more about a komodo dragon’s venom by checking out the video below:
7. Bat
Bats are found all over the world, and there are more than 1,400 species of them. They vary greatly in size with wingspans ranging from just under six inches to more than five feet.
Bats are not aggressive toward humans, but they will bite if they are trapped, frightened, or handled improperly. Their teeth shape varies from species to species, but some have sharp and powerful teeth that can cause a lot of pain.
To avoid being bitten by a bat, it’s best to simply leave them alone. Remember, they are not aggressive and will not bite you unless you provoke them.
8. Raccoon
Raccoons are found throughout North America. They live in many different environments, from woodlands to urban areas.
Raccoons typically coexist with humans peacefully, and some people keep them as pets. However, they will bite and scratch if they feel threatened, and they may become aggressive without being provoked if they are infected with rabies.
While raccoons are generally harmless, it’s best to keep your distance from them especially if they appear to be acting strange or aggressive.
9. Cat
Many large cats like lions, tigers, and jaguars are known for their hunting skills. But even domesticated house cats have a bite that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Cats often bite and scratch when play-hunting. They may also bite if they are provoked or feel threatened.
Though house cat bites are rarely dangerous, they can still lead to infection. It’s important to apply basic first aid measures if your cat bites you.
10. Dog
There are many different dog breeds throughout the world. Some are small and relatively harmless, while others are large and capable of delivering powerful bites.
Dogs may bite for many reasons depending on their breed. Some bite only when threatened, others bite in defense of their pack members, and still others may become aggressive and bite anyone trying to control them.
If you have a pet dog, proper care and training can greatly reduce your dog’s tendency to bite.
Conclusion
The world is filled with many types of animals that may bite for different reasons. Some animals that commonly bite humans include snakes, spiders, crocodiles, cats, and dogs.
