Watch Out for the 12 Deadliest Animals in Minnesota

If you're out on a hike in Minnesota it's common knowledge that there are animals you need to keep an eye out for depending on where you are. There are some dangerous and even deadly animals that prowl around in Minnesota's wilderness.

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There are probably a few of these deadly animals that you can think of right off the top of your head but I bet there will be a couple that you don't expect. Let's check it out!

Coyotes

If you get up in their space and they feel threatened, that's bad news for you. They may also get aggressive if their regular food supply has dried up, according to Southwest Journal.

Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake

Yes, we have rattlesnakes in Minnesota, and they have a poisonous bite!

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Black Widow Spider

According to National Geographic, a bite from one of these guys can have poison 15 times stronger than rattlesnake venom.

Hawks

Be aware of where you're walking. If you're near a hawk's space where they're hunting or where their family is, go the other way.

Wolves

Same kind of thing as with coyotes. If you're in their space, that's bad. So keep your distance. And, just like with coyotes, if their food sources are low or gone they can be more aggressive.

Eagles

Respect their space and you shouldn't have any problems.

Brown Recluse Spider

The brown recluse spider can cause some serious problems if you get bitten by one. When it bites you, you won't feel it, but it will eventually become itchy, sometimes there will be a blister or an ulcer, too.

Wasps/Hornets/Yellow Jackets/Bees

Although these guys aren't the same, the reason they can be deadly is mainly because of allergic reactions people can have to their stings. Also, it's important to note that you shouldn't kill bees, they're important pollinators, so just leave them alone and you should be good. The picture above is of a wasp.

Owls

Don't intrude on their space and they won't feel threatened by you. My husband and I walked by an owl while on a hike a few months ago. Thankfully he just stayed in the tree but I think he also may have been a baby.

Timber Rattlesnake

Another poisonous snake that can be found in Minnesota! Thankfully, rattlesnakes will make a sound before striking.

Moose

These guys are massive, so if they feel threatened by you, you're done for.

Black Bears

And the most deadly animal in Minnesota is the black bear. Keep away from their babies and give them space and you shouldn't have problems. However, sadly, we've been seeing a lot more bears in neighborhoods because of a dwindling food supply.

The Minnesota DNR says that if you encounter a black bear, first, don't move and keep eye contact. See what the bear does. Most of the time they run away. If they come toward you make yourself as big as possible and start making lots of noise. You can throw things at the bear as well to scare it off.