South Carolina is no stranger to dangerous wildlife. The DNR stays on top of managing it for us, and for that we’re grateful. But there are still instances where new creatures are spotted here from time to time and, even worse, a population of a dangerous species spreads into our own backyard, effectively infiltrating suburban life. Everyone knows to watch out for alligators and sharks along the coast and for the occasional bear in the mountain, but here are five possibly out-of-place creatures to keep a keen eye out for.
In 2017, SCDNR issued a warning about these dangerous sea creatures showing up on beaches. They are normally found in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic Oceans. The Portuguese Man O'War is seldom seen in the Palmetto State and has a venomous sting that can kill an animal, and rarely humans — although humans have died from complications from the sting.
South Carolina has two populations of black bears. One is located in the mountains and the other is found in the coastal plains. While everyone knows the dangers of feeding a bear, most people overlook the possibility of one of them running across the road while you're driving. In 2017, the SCDNR issued a statement about the increasing incidence of South Carolina automobile accidents involving bears.
Exceptionally stealth in staying hidden, bobcats are found in South Carolina, especially in the coastal plain. However, they're becoming more and more of an issue in the Piedmont. The female is about twice the size of a house cat, and if you spot one out in the open, it's not a good sign as they tend to stay away from people and out of sight.
We can thank the Spanish for the mean wild pigs found here. They brought them to South Carolina in 1500. There is an estimated 130,000 wild hogs in South Carolina! This one looks almost cute, but that's because it's sleeping. Don't underestimate the power and unpredictable nature of a feral hog!
While coyotes aren't new creatures to the state, their brazen infiltration into our suburbs is becoming a real issue. Take a look at the short youtube video below (from user Associated Press) and watch as a coyote follows a Mount Pleasant doctor into the back door of an office building!
Have you spotted any of the above in an out-of-place spot in the Palmetto State! We’d love to know!
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