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Two of the most dangerous animals in the world can be found in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire might not seem like the locale for dangerous animals. After all, its mountainous terrain and cold winters prevent animals like crocodiles and scorpions from making a home in the state.
It’s true that very few people are killed by animals in New Hampshire, and most are not dangerous unless provoked. But according to BBC’s Science Focus Magazine, mosquitos and snakes are two of the most dangerous animals in the world – and both can be found in New Hampshire.
Mosquitos
Mosquitos are the deadliest animals in the world, killing over 725,000 people a year through diseases like West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).
There are more than 40 species of mosquitos in New Hampshire, according to the NH Department of Health and Human Services, and only a small number of these carry and spread EEE and WNV. Still, DHHS recommends using effective mosquito repellants when mosquitos are biting and contact your health care providers if you develop symptoms of these diseases, like headache, neck stiffness, fever or paralysis.
Timber rattlesnake
New Hampshire has one venomous snake: the timber rattlesnake. In New Hampshire, it looks like a large, thick black snake with brown cross-bands and a triangular head.
Most timber rattlesnake bites are not deadly, but you should seek immediate medical attention if you get bit.
But luckily, it’s rare to run into one in New Hampshire: while historically this snake ranged from the Massachusetts border up to the White Mountains, the species is now endangered with just one known population in the state.
More: NH’s only venomous snake is the most endangered animal in the state. What to know about them
Black bears
Black bears are generally shy and like to avoid humans, but they are still dangerous. If you encounter a bear, New Hampshire Fish and Game Department says to keep your distance and make loud noises. If a black bear attacks you, you should fight back rather than play dead.
Black bears are capable of killing people, but don’t fear – it’s extremely rare. According to NH Fish and Game, the last time a person was killed by a black bear in New Hampshire was 1784.
Moose
At 1,000 pounds and six feet tall, a moose can pose a significant threat if it becomes aggressive.
Warning signs that a moose is anxious or agitated, according to the Appalachian Mountain Club, include laid back ears, hair standing up on the back of their neck, smacking their lips, or tossing their head upwards. If a moose charges, you should run and continue to try to escape even if it makes contact. To avoid conflicts, it’s best to stay a safe distance away.
According to the AMC, there has never been a human fatality from a moose attack in the Northeast. Moose pose a greater danger to people in cars: several people die every year in moose-vehicle car collisions in the Northeast.
Moose occur throughout New Hampshire, but are most numerous north of the White Mountains, according to NH Fish and Game.
Black Widow spider
Black widows have a venomous bite 15 times more potent than a rattlesnake. According to the Connecticut Poison Control Center, black widow bites can cause redness and pain, but generally no serious symptoms.
And like the rattlesnake, the spiders aren’t hostile unless threatened and they’re rare to cross paths with: they are only found in the southern parts of New Hampshire.
