Wildlife in the Wild can take your life. Not all the critters in nature are from Disneyland. Many are just trying to survive; Humans have a knack of threatening them.
Several of the world’s deadliest critters live in Montana, but not all. Montana is home to moose, bison, elk, deer, bears, coyotes, mountain lions, and wolves, Oh My! All sound dangerous and under the right, or wrong, situations, can become lethal and dangerous.
Not all animal attacks in Montana are lethal. Only 61+ fatal encounters with bears have been recorded. Most of these are from Grizzly bears during September and October. This is when bears are feeding heavily, so they can fatten up for their Winter hibernation. Most bear attacks end with human injury but not death. With a growing population of protected Grizzly bears, encounters and deaths are on the rise.
In Yellowstone Park, Bison are the biggest threat to people. Tourists frequently get too close to these fluffy cows and encourage attacks. Bison can run 35 mph and can-do serious damage to fragile humans and vehicles. Large mammals like moose and deer can also get angry at humans and cause injury. Fatalities are rare but injuries are way too common.
Mountain lions, wolves, and other critter attacks have also occurred. Most encounters involve food, surprise, mothers protecting their young, or threatening behavior. These attacks are rare.
In the world, there are many other ways to die from critters. There are way more other critter encounters, but these are just a few.
Snakes 50,000 deaths/year
Wild dogs 25,000 deaths /year
Elephants 500 deaths/year
Hippos 500 Deaths/year
Saltwater crocs 1,000 deaths/year
Sharks 11 deaths/year
Ironically, Humans are responsible for well over half a million deaths per year. War and murder contribute even more.
The worst critters that can kill you are small. Fresh water snails, tapeworms, and mosquitos do the most harm. Malaria and dozens of other diseases are spread by these tiny female insects. Over a million humans a year die from mosquito borne illnesses.
Be aware of the risks in your area and avoid dangerous encounters.
Montana Grant
