What is Michigan’s Deadliest Creature?
When it comes to deadly creatures around the world, our beautiful planet certainly has its share. But, luckily, most of these deadly creatures are somewhat avoidable by just using common sense, i.e., if you never swim in the ocean, the odds are you'll never be attacked by a shark.
So, what are the top 10 deadliest creatures when it comes to humans? You might be surprised. Here is the breakdown according to WorldAtlas:
The 10 Deadliest Creatures to Humans
#10 - CROCODILES: Due to the isolated areas in which fatal attacks occur with the stealthy crocodile, it is nearly impossible to get an exact number but, it is assumed that approximately 1,000 people are killed by these prehistoric beasts each year. (But this number is probably much higher)
#9 - TAPEWORM: With many different species out there, these parasites can cause an infection called taenisasis in humans that puts them at #9 on the list, killing approximately 2,000 humans annually. (Make sure your pork & beef is fully cooked every time, right?)
#8 - ASCARIS ROUNDWORM: These tiny creatures can cause an infection in the small intestine known as ascariases, which accounts for a minimum of 2,500 human deaths per year.
#7 - FRESHWATER SNAILS: Surprisingly these cute little things can carry, and pass, another type of parasite called schistosomiasis to humans. This can cause flu-like symptoms, as well as blood vomits, and even leg paralysis, accounting for over 10,000 annual human deaths.
#6 - ASSASSIN BUGS: Also known as Kissing Bugs (I'd much rather be kissed than assassinated), these things spread the parasite that causes Chagas disease, which leads to organ failure, killing upwards of 10,000 humans per year.
#5 - TSETSE FLIES: Although this killer insect is mostly found in Africa, it still accounts for over 10,000 annual human deaths by spreading a parasite that causes the sleeping sickness disease. Because it can also affect livestock, it can be devastating in developing areas.
#4 - DOGS: Unfortunately, not all dogs are man's best friend. Although a small percentage of humans die from an actual attack itself, most fall victim to infection from the rabies virus. Either way, our furry friends account for an estimated 25,000 human deaths per year.
#3 - SNAKES: Whether you love them, or hate them, these scaly creatures account for well over 50,000 human deaths worldwide per year. Much like the crocodile, most snake bite victims live in developing countries so the actual numbers are almost impossible to calculate.
#2 - HUMANS: It's sad to say but, with all the death and destruction caused by world wars, homicides, and even disease, humans can be their own worst enemies. It is estimated that over 475,000 human deaths are caused by other humans annually.
So, What Is Michigan's Deadliest Creature?
#1 - MOSQUITOES: It is estimated that as many as 50 billion people have been negatively affected by these pests throughout their history as a species. And, although their size is far from intimidating, mosquitoes are responsible for over 1,000,000 human deaths per year, giving them the #1 spot on the 'Deadliest Creatures' list. Mosquitoes pass along diseases such as dengue fever, West Nile, yellow fever, Zika, chikungunya, lymphatic filariasis, and the big one: malaria.
Staying 100% mosquito free in today's day and age is almost impossible. But you can take all the necessary precautions. Use these helpful tips from the CDC to protect yourself this summer and be safe out there.