North Dakota
The 10 Deadliest Animals In North Dakota
North Dakota is known for its sweeping plains, rugged badlands, and a diverse array of wildlife that thrives in its varied ecosystems that embody the Upper Midwest and Great Plains. While the Peace Garden State’s nickname might lend the illusion of a tranquil natural wonderland devoid of danger, North Dakota’s ecosystem is actually quite the contrary- before you go hiking or driving in North Dakota, check this rundown of its deadliest animals first so you’re prepared and educated for whatever you might encounter.
American Bison
The American bison(Bison bison) is a massive mammal with a thick coat of dark brown fur, a large hump on its shoulders, and a pair of short, curved horns. Bison are commonly found in open grasslands and plains throughout North Dakota, particularly in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Despite their seemingly docile appearance, bison can be extremely dangerous if they feel threatened or provoked. They are known to charge at high speeds, and their sheer size and strength can cause severe injuries or even death. Keep a safe distance from bison, and never approach them for a closer look or a photograph. If you find yourself too close to a bison, slowly and calmly back away. Be especially vigilant on rural roads in their territory, as they could total your car (not to mention kill you).
Black Widow Spider
The black widow spider(Latrodectus mactans) is easily recognized by its shiny black body and the distinctive red hourglass shape on the underside of its abdomen that sparks fear in the beholder. These spiders prefer dark, sheltered areas and can often be found in woodpiles, garages, and sheds throughout North Dakota. The black widow’s venom is highly toxic and can cause severe pain, muscle cramps, and even paralysis. While bites are rarely fatal to healthy adults, they can be extremely dangerous to children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Wear gloves when handling firewood or cleaning out garages and sheds, and be cautious when reaching into dark areas or under ledges. If bitten, seek medical attention immediately, ESPECIALLY if you’re immunocompromised.
Deer Tick
Deer ticks(Ixodes scapularis) are small, with a reddish-brown body and dark legs. Adult ticks are about the size of a sesame seed and are widespread across North Dakota, particularly in wooded and grassy areas. Deer ticks are carriers of Lyme disease, which can cause serious health problems, including debilitating and potentially chronic joint pain, neurological issues, and heart problems. Use insect repellent containing DEET when spending time outdoors, especially in tick-prone areas. Wear long sleeves and pants, and tuck your pants into your socks to ensure minimal exposure to skin. After being outdoors, check your body and clothing for ticks and remove any promptly. They love to brush onto you while in tall grass, and their size makes them especially difficult to find– be thorough in your tick checks!
Cougar
The cougar (Puma concolor), also known as the mountain lion, is a large, slender cat with a tawny coat, a white underbelly, and a long tail. Cougars are mostly found in the western part of North Dakota, particularly in the badlands and forested areas. Cougars are powerful predators capable of taking down large prey with strong bites and razor-sharp claws. While attacks on humans are rare, they can occur if the cougar feels threatened or is starving. Avoid hiking alone in cougar territory, especially at dawn or dusk. Keep children and pets close to you. If you encounter a cougar, make yourself appear larger, maintain eye contact, and back away slowly. Do not run– it will chase you, and it will win.
Prairie Rattlesnake
Similar to the Western rattlesnake, the prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis) has a light brown to greenish-gray color with darker blotches and a distinct rattle at the end of its tail. Prairie rattlesnakes are found throughout the western and central regions of North Dakota, especially in grasslands and prairies. Like its western counterpart, the prairie rattlesnake’s venom is dangerous and can lead to severe medical complications if bitten. Take the same precautions as with the Western rattlesnake. Stay on designated trails, be mindful of where you step or reach, and always keep an ear out for that tell-tale rattle.
Moose
Moose (Alces alces) are the largest members of the deer family, with long legs, a humped back, a dark brown coat, and massive antlers in males. Moose are found in the forested and wetland areas of North Dakota, particularly in the Turtle Mountains and along the Canadian border. Moose can be extremely aggressive, particularly during the rutting season or if they feel their young are threatened. Their large size and powerful legs make them capable of causing severe injuries or fatalities. Maintain a safe distance from moose, especially if you see calves nearby. If a moose charges, try to find a solid object like a tree or vehicle to place between you and the animal.
Brown Recluse Spider
The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) is brown and has a violin-shaped mark on its back. These spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas (hence the name recluse) and are found in homes, garages, and storage sheds across North Dakota. The venom of the brown recluse can cause necrotic wounds that may take weeks or months to heal. Severe bites can lead to systemic symptoms and, in rare cases, death. Keep your home and outbuildings clean and free of clutter. Similar to the Black Widow, gloves should be used when reaching into dark or rarely used spaces. If bitten, seek medical attention immediately.
Mosquitoes (Several Species)
While many consider the mosquito more a pest than a danger, these biting, blood-sucking insects are vectors for several diseases. North Dakota has over 40 different species of mosquitoes, and a few have been positively confirmed to have West Nile Virus (WNV), a potentially deadly disease. Other diseases they potentially carry include St. Louis encephalitis virus (SLEV) and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Distinctive for their whine and biting activity around dawn and dusk, mosquitos are best defended against via a good offense: eliminate standing water around your home to reduce larvae, and use bug spray with DEET or protective clothing when outside.
White Tailed Deer
Anyone who has driven a highway for any length in the United States knows full well that though white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are herbivores, they can be dangerous. With a light brown coat, antlers for males, and a fluffy white tail that earns it its name, the white-tailed deer ranges throughout North Dakota, from remote wilderness to genteel suburb. This is its danger: its territory often intersects with roads, and deer-precipitated crashes can prove deadly not just for the deer but also for the driver, particularly on highways at high speed. There’s not much avoiding them; simply be vigilant while driving and always turn your brights on long, uninhabited roads where deer might be bold.
Coyote
Coyotes (Canis latrans) are medium-sized canines with a grayish-brown coat, pointed ears, and a bushy tail. While they might seem cute, they can also pose a severe danger to you and especially your pets. These trash-loving scavengers are adaptable and can be found throughout North Dakota in both rural and suburban areas. Coyotes are opportunistic predators and will attack pets and, in rare instances, humans. They can also carry diseases like rabies, which are dangerous to humans and pets. Do not leave food or garbage outside that might attract coyotes. Keep pets indoors, especially at night. If you encounter a coyote, make loud noises and try to appear larger to scare it away.
North Dakota’s landscape is as diverse as its wildlife, presenting both beauty and danger. While the animals listed above are indeed dangerous, understanding their behavior and taking proper precautions can significantly reduce the risk of negative encounters. By respecting these animals’ habitats and learning to coexist safely, we can enjoy North Dakota’s natural wonders while minimizing the potential for harm. Remember always to keep a safe distance, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the recommended safety guidelines when exploring the great outdoors.
GRAND FORKS — A North Dakota composer’s dream is turning into a statewide invitation.
Williston-based musician Emily Black-Driscoll was chosen as the North Dakota Music Teachers Association’s commissioned composer for 2026. She’s preparing an original composition that will premiere in August.
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North Dakota
Challengers declare victory after ND Supreme Court rules against Legislature’s attempt to alter term limits
BISMARCK — A constitutional ballot measure to amend the state’s term limits law as proposed by the Legislature will not appear on November’s ballot, the North Dakota Supreme Court ruled Thursday, siding with petitioners who argued the Legislature exceeded its authority and violated the state constitution in proposing the changes.
“The people’s voice was heard,” Grand Forks County Commissioner Terry Bjerke said in reaction to the news.
Bjerke was a member of the sponsoring committee behind the successful 2022 effort to pass a term limits initiative, which amended the state constitution by capping legislative term limits to eight years in the House and eight years in the Senate. The amendment, which became article XV of the state constitution, also included a clause barring the Legislature from making constitutional changes to term limits.
During the 2025 session, however, lawmakers narrowly approved Senate Concurrent Resolution 4008, in which the legislature proposed Constitutional Measure 1, a ballot measure to amend the term limits language to allow legislators to decide in which chamber they want to serve their 16 years, and to repeal the clause limiting the legislative assembly’s authority to propose an amendment to alter or repeal term limits.
Bjerke and former Minot legislator Oley Larsen brought the lawsuit challenging the validity of the Legislature’s action in January, and the state Supreme Court
heard oral arguments in the case
this spring.
“Those term limits may only be altered by a measure proposed by the people rather than the Legislative Assembly. And yet a few years later, the Legislative Assembly is doing what they are prohibited from doing,” attorney Zachary Wallen argued on Bjerke and Larsen’s behalf.
Tanner Ecker / The Bismarck Tribune
The Legislature’s attorneys argued the clause prohibiting legislative proposals to alter the constitutional term limits language “infringes on our republican form of government” by “limiting the people’s ability to vote on amendments proposed by their elected officials.”
Justice Jon Jensen seemed skeptical of that argument during the April 2 hearing, questioning whether a second vote was appropriate.
“The public did speak on this. The public spoke on it when it passed the original constitutional amendment and they said, ‘Legislature, you don’t even get to propose a change.’ They have already spoken on it,” Jensen said. “You want a second shot, or a second bite at the apple, not a first one, a second.”
In Thursday’s ruling, all five justices sided with Bjerke and Larsen.
“We … conclude the Legislative Assembly’s adoption of S.C.R. 4008 violated N.D. Const. art. XV … and declare S.C.R. 4008 and Constitutional Measure 1 void … We enjoin the Secretary of State from placing Constitutional Measure 1 on the November 2026 general election ballot,” the ruling said.
Bjerke thanked the legal team that worked on behalf of their lawsuit, and said he was grateful the court reached the conclusion it did.
“I’m thrilled that what the people voted on and approved has been validated,” Bjerke said.
He added that the Legislature had “multiple opportunities” to address term limits prior to 2022’s initiated measure and chose not to, and gave a nod to the country’s coming milestone and the process by which voters expressed their support for term limits.
“We’ve lasted 250 years,” Bjerke said. “I have two words for those elected leaders who think they aren’t: everyone’s replaceable.”
North Dakota
Fargo woman convicted in North Dakota fraud case now faces charges in Minnesota: A deeper dive
FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – A North Dakota woman who was sentenced to 180 days in jail in Cass County for defrauding healthcare providers and Medicaid programs is now facing additional fraud charges in Minnesota.
Christine Marie Pryor, 55, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to theft by deception involving more than $50,000. She was sentenced to first serve 180 days with a 3-year sentence suspended. She received credit for 44 days already served.
Pryor was ordered to pay $82,584.78 in restitution to Southeast Human Services in Fargo, where she worked between 2018 and 2019.
How the scheme unfolded
According to court documents, Pryor worked at multiple healthcare facilities in North Dakota and Minnesota between 2018 and 2023, using the identities and credentials of three licensed professionals without their knowledge. She submitted fraudulent Capella University diplomas and transcripts to gain employment.
Investigators say Pryor admitted she searched state licensing websites for therapists who shared her first name, then used those therapists’ last names and license numbers when applying for jobs.
At Southeast Human Services, where she worked as a Licensed Addiction Counselor, Pryor earned $55,584.82 while providing therapy services to approximately 150 patients. She also opened her own counseling center, NIAM Brain Injury Center, in Fargo between 2020 and 2021, and worked at The Lotus Center in Moorhead, Minnesota, from 2021 to 2023.
Court documents say the three licensed professionals whose identities were used told investigators they had no knowledge of Pryor’s actions and did not give her permission to use their information.
Two additional charges against Pryor in North Dakota, unauthorized use of personal identifying information, were dismissed on motion of the state.
Additional charges in Minnesota
Pryor is also facing charges in Minnesota. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced on Tuesday charges against Pryor in Clay County District Court for six theft offenses and six identity theft offenses related to defrauding Minnesota’s Medicaid program of more than $150,000.
According to the Minnesota complaint, Pryor claimed to provide psychotherapy and alcohol and drug counseling services to Medicaid recipients despite having no license or credentials to do so. Prosecutors allege she used the credentials and identities of three licensed professionals while claiming to provide Medicaid-funded services to 169 clients.
The Minnesota charges were filed as part of National Health Care Fraud Takedown Day, a joint effort involving the Department of Justice and more than 40 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units.
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