We can all probably agree that Missouri’s home to some beautiful and fascinating wildlife – from deer and elk to beavers and opossums. In addition to the relatively harmless wildlife, Missouri also has some dangerous animals of which we should always steer clear. Here are five of the most dangerous animals in Missouri.

1. Osage Copperhead Snakes
Flickr/Peter Paplanus
Missourians are no strangers to snakes. After all, the state is home to 47 different snake species, of which five are venomous. The population of the timber rattlesnake, for example, is declining across the state while the most common snake seen statewide is the Osage copperhead. Killing snakes is illegal in Missouri even if you are bitten by one. The easiest way to stay safe is to stay away from a snake, if you see one, and never handle one. Always watch where you are walking when outdoors, and look before you sit down. If you see a snake, turn around and go the other way.
2. Black Bears
Moiggi Interactive/Flickr
You’ll typically see Black Bears in forested areas of Missouri. However, the black bear population appears to be growing, so you might catch sight of one in the suburbs. If you do run across a black bear, when you’re hiking or outdoors, make sure you make a noise to let him know you’re there. Never turn your back on a bear. The Missouri Department of Conservation says that what you are supposed to do is stay calm, raise your arms, and back away slowly.

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3. Black Widow Spiders
Flickr/Roadside Pictures
Black Widow Spiders are common throughout Missouri, and they are dangerous, especially if you’re unfortunate enough to be bit by one (The good news, though, is they’re not usually aggressive animals). The Missouri Department of Conservation recommends capturing the black widow, if you’ve been bitten by one and are able to get it safely, and take it with you when you seek medical help. Avoid black widows as best you can by paying attention to your surroundings when you are outdoors (They do, however, find their way into homes at times).
4. Coyotes
Flickr/Andy Reago and Chrissy McClarren
Coyotes are common in Missouri and are particularly dangerous to small animals, whom they feed on. They’ve even been known to grab unattended small dogs, so always go outside with your pup if you know there are coyotes around. You might see a coyote every now and then during the daytime, but they’re for the most part nocturnal animals.
5. Ticks
Flickr/R. Kriatyrr Brosvik
While we might not think of ticks as animals, they are and they can be dangerous as some carry Lyme Disease. You’re most likely to come into contact with ticks during the spring and the summer, but there are several precautions you can take to protect yourself. Wear an insect repellent, for example, and dress in light-colored clothes. After spending time outdoors, always check your clothing and your skin for ticks, and remove those that you find. A shower or a bath within a few hours of going back indoors is also recommended by some experts.

Have you encountered any of these dangerous animals in Missouri? Did you know what to do? Please share your experiences in the comments section below!

Since we’re on the subject of danger, have you ever followed the most dangerous hiking trail in Missouri?

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