Which animals should you avoid during your holiday down under!

Australia undoubtedly has a bad reputation for its deadly animals, with the phrase ‘everything wants to kill you in Australia’ a common phrase used throughout the world. However, this is far from the case, with a lot of the country’s animal dangers easily avoided. Follow our guide and learn the tips and tricks to evade any danger when visiting Australia.

  • Saltwater Crocodiles

    Found in Australia’s Northern Territory, the Saltwater Crocodile is the largest reptile in the entire world. It is one of the deadliest predators for over than 100 million years, continuing to remain on the top of the food chain within the Northern Territory wilderness. The magnificent beasts can reach up to seven metres in length, although most adult males come in at around five metres. As well as being big, they are also old, first appearing over 240 million years ago during the time of the dinosaurs. Sporting 68 sharp teeth, and a jaw so strong, they can rip off limbs by simply gripping and ‘death’ rolling. Unfortunately for us, we are on the crocodile’s food menu, but as long as we stay out of their territory, you have no risk of being harmed. Crocodile-infested waters are strictly restricted, with the only exception being a professional crocodile cruise tour. Where you can see these incredible creatures from the safety of the boat.

  • Box Jellyfish

    The creeping creatures in Australia can have a deadly sting that can cause some serious harm. Although a few harmful ones are dotting around, the Box Jellyfish is by far the most dangerous. It is the most venomous jellyfish on the entire planet, leading to either a very painful sting or even death if it is two metres or more tentacle contact. Luckily, the jellyfish aren’t around all year, but only pop up between November to May. During this season, avoiding unsafe beaches, visiting jellyfish proof beaches, or wearing protective jellyfish wetsuits is a must.

  • Redback Spider

    If you’re already scared of spiders, you can be extra scared of this one. As even the spider lovers of Australia avoid this small but highly venomous species. Found throughout the country, one bite can cause death if not treated. Luckily, finding medical help after being bitten can be easy, as an antivenom has been available since 1956, leading to no deaths since its release. Spiders are as well usually keep to themselves, so as long as you don’t disturb them, they won’t bother you.

  • Great White Shark

    The Great White Shark is far more fearsome in our imaginations than in reality. Although it has been reported to be involved in more human attacks than any other shark, their status as the most deadly creature in the ocean is exaggerated. Of the shark attacks, the majority of these are not fatal, with many of sharks mistaking humans for seals or “sample biting” then releasing their victims. Although this is still not that comforting, it does show that after one bite, sharks typically stop attacking, showing that humans are not actually on the great white’s menu. As well, although there have been some unlucky people who have come face to face with these dangerous creatures within Australia, statistically speaking the likelihood of getting attacked and killed by a shark being 1 in 3,748,067.

  • Brown Snake

    The Brown Snake is renowned for its bad temper, a fast-moving and aggressive species of snake, that gives Australia’s other snakes a bad rep. Their venom is ranked the second most toxic in the world, paralysing victims within a minutes. They thrive in populated areas, hiding in long grass and bushes, so staying in clear path areas is always a good idea. Another trick is stamping your feet when walking, as the vibrations in the ground scare off a lot nearby snakes before you even encounter them.

Related article: Best Instagram-Worthy Locations in Australia

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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