New Zealand is comparatively safe compared to its neighbor Australia, which is home to many deadly creepy crawlies. There are some spiders and other unsavory creatures, but nothing has venom potent enough to kill an adult human! This article will list the 6 most dangerous animals in New Zealand can hurt you.
New Zealand Sea Lion
Only located in New Zealand, the New Zealand sea lion is the rarest sea lion species in the entire world. Around Stewart Island and along Otago’s southeast coast, you can witness the little colonies. On the south island of New Zealand, fur seals can also be found.
In New Zealand, seals and sea lions can both be regarded as dangerous species. They appear innocent and charming, but they actually have extraordinarily keen teeth and strong jaws. They have the potential to seriously hurt both people and dogs.
The recommended distance between you and a seal pup is 50 yards (150 feet). They can develop an interest in you and try to find you on their own. The mother, though, is constantly nearby and will become hostile if you approach too closely. No seal selfies are allowed here, so put the camera away!
Grey Side-Gilled Sea Slug
There were a distressing number of dog fatalities on Auckland beaches in 2009. The TTX poison released by the grey side-gilled sea slug was coming into direct contact with man’s greatest furry pals. A neurotoxin called TTX (tetrodotoxin) paralyzes muscles, which affects the diaphragm and respiration.
Other marine creatures like pufferfish and blue-ringed octopuses also contain TTX. Humans can be killed by TTX in small doses; an average-sized person can be killed by 1-2mg of TTX or about half a teaspoon of sea slug. This neurotoxin has no known cure as of yet!
Most marine settings, including muddy harbors, open beaches, estuaries, and deep oceans, are home to these slugs. Therefore, resist the urge to Bear Grylls a meal up from these slugs while visiting New Zealand, not even on a dare. With this poison, there is no turning back!
White-Tailed Spider
In New Zealand, the white-tailed spider is a species that is more frequently encountered. This is due to the fact that residential dwellings across the country frequently have walls and ceilings that are its habitat. A white-tailed spider won’t attack unless it is provoked. The bite usually doesn’t do any harm. However, the first swelling, itching, and slight burning sensations might be irritating. These symptoms ought to go away fast.
Do you know Fun Facts About Wildlife in New Zealand
Katipo Spider – Most Dangerous Species In New Zealand
This is the most dangerous animal in New Zealand. You could face a number of symptoms if you unluckily come across a katipo spider. High blood pressure, an accelerated heart rate, and edema around the bite site are a few of these symptoms. If the antivenom is not administered, you can also experience chest pains. These tiny spiders are common, however, the majority of New Zealanders have never seen one. They are mostly found among sand dunes, although they won’t attack unless provoked.
Wild Boar – Top Dangerous Animal In New Zealand
Never undervalue a wild boar’s potential for harm. They could be adorable up close or as piglets. However, these pigs can reach a height of 6 feet and a weight of 440+ pounds (200+ kg) when completely matured. Some substantial-sized tusks are supported by a lot of strength and muscle!
Wild boars can attack humans, like most deadly creatures, but usually only when they feel threatened. Without our knowledge, the boars can become fearful of us as we approach them in their region.
In forestry areas, wild boars can be found all around New Zealand. Therefore, if you see a boar in the distance while hiking, keep your wits about yourself and try to avoid getting too close.
Magpies
Magpie breeding season, which lasts from July to December, is also when attacks are most frequent. The birds attack any animal that threatens their territory or nests by swooping down from above, even people.
Magpies’ swooping assaults have the potential to seriously harm your head or eyes. Not to mention that they can be really intimidating! In the adjacent country of Australia, there have been two reports of fatal magpie assaults. One resulted in tetanus, and the other included a senior rider who crashed while attempting to evade the dive-bombing birds.
The best thing you can do when out and about in New Zealand is to just have your wits about you. If something unlucky happens, try to cover your head with a jacket, bag, or shirt before leaving the scene.
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