The animal kingdom is comprised of countless different animals, some of which we can’t help but admire, and some who can be absolutely deadly. In some cases, they can be both.
When it comes to survival, even the most precious species may just surprise you if the right moment arises.
Ranging from the deep blue waters to the vast desert, let’s look at some of our favourite species that roam the planet, and what they might do if pushed to the edge.
1. Elephants. If agitated, elephants can experience tantrums and episodes of rage. In India alone, hundreds of people have been killed by mistreated elephants, according to the BBC. Annually, elephants claim the lives of about 500 people, as reported by National Geographic.
2. Poison Dart Frog. This particular species of frogs mustn’t be taken lightly. This is one of the single most poisonous creatures on Earth, with enough venom to kill 10 adult men, according to National Geographic. It’s believed that the toxicity is gathered through its contact with the prey they eat.
3. Blue-Ringed Octopus. According to MNN, this is one of the world’s most venomous animals. Its blue rings only appear when it’s alarmed, but if you don’t leave, it’ll inject you with its paralyzing venom, strong enough to kill 26 adults in minutes.
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4. Slow Loris. This furry creature carries a toxin that causes an anaphylactic shock in humans. The way it carries itself has the Smithsonian wondering if it evolved through time to mimic the cobra.
5. Cassowary. This colourful bird can run and jump at high speeds of 30 mph, and attacks by thrusting its large claws to disembowel its prey. With a leap of over 3 feet in the air, you better watch your back.
6. Puffer Fish. When it is in its blown form, it contains little spines that inject tetrodotoxin into its victims, enough for a fatal blow to a human being.
WikiMedia7. Hippos. Known to be territorial, prepare to be chased by an 8-ton animal at 20 mph if you get too close. Fortunately, they’re herbivores but possess a bite of up to 6,000 pounds of pressure.
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8. Cone Snail. All it takes is one drop of venom to end 20 human lives. Classified as the “cigarette snail”, you’d only have as long as it takes to smoke a cigarette before you stop breathing.
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9. Leopard Seals. This seal is at the top of the food chain in Antarctica. National Geographic ranks it alongside killer whales as the top predators in Antarctica.
10. Dolphins. Other than humans, they’re one of the few animals to kill without reason. Dolphins are responsible for the death of hundreds in the ocean, and not even for food.
11. Black Mamba Snake. Growing up to 14 feet, this snake is the fastest of all, slithering at speeds of 12.5 mph. Only attacking when threatened, it strikes with bites that deliver enough venom to kill 10 humans. Within 20 minutes and with no antivenom, it is a 100 percent fatal injection.
12. Polar Bears. Polar bears are the largest carnivores in the animal kingdom. They don’t kill human beings, likely due to the rare contact between us. However, if put in the vicinity of a human, it would likely track them by scent if necessary.
