Wolves

Wolves have always been a threat to humans. There are countless of people throughout history who have died because of interactions with wolves. Even though modern technology has diminished the threat of wolves, they can still be deadly. Wolves tend to attack smaller animals for food, and some of them won't even dare touch a human. However, in some geographic areas, it does happen. Even today, death by wolves is still rare, but they can still cause harm.

Polar Bears

Most people don't consider polar bears to be dangerous, but they can actually kill humans. Every year, there are those who end up dead at the hands of polar bears. There are several reasons for this, but the biggest one is entering a polar bear's territory and messing its food. Another reason is when hunters go after polar bears but end up being killed by the animal. When it comes to polar bears, don't bother them.

Golden Poison Dart Frog

These yellow-skined frogs look cute, but as its name suggests, it can be very poisonous. These frogs are found primarily in the rainforest in South America. Their skin contains a type of poison called Batrachotoxin, which is very potent. When one is exposed to the poison, muscle functions might be altered and may result in heart failure. They don't kill as many people today because they are now endangered, but the few that remain can still be deadly.

Sharks

Sharks are known in pop culture for their deadly attacks on humans. In reality, however, they only kill a handful of people per year. Most of those cases, people went too close to the sharks. If one keeps a safe distance, then there's nothing to worry about. However, if one encounters a Shark, then bad luck. These creatures can quickly kill their victims with no notice.

Horses

Horses are so peaceful, and yet so deadly. The good news is that most fatalities from horses do not occur because of an attack. Rather, it is because someone is trying to ride a horse and end up in an accident. The horse may not mean harm, but if one is not careful, a horse might react in a harsh way. It is best to work with a trained professional when dealing with a horse.

Ants

On the surface, ants are harmless. However, they would attack when threatened. Deadly ants include the fire ants, which could attack the skin and inject the victim with poison, and bulldog ants, which can use their jaws in an aggressive manner. Some ants specialize at swarming their victims and stinging them in pain. A few people die every year because of exposure to dangerous ants. It will make you think twice about getting an ant farm.

Elephants

Did you know that hundreds of people die every year because of elephants? These creatures seem so gentle, with images of Dumbo and other adorable elephants coming to mind. However, some people get too close to them in the wild, and the results are sometimes tragic. When an elephant feels threatened, they will charge anything or anyone in their way. Obviously, these massive animals can cause great harm when they are provoked.

Cone Snails

Cone Snails are predators in the wild. These small creatures can kill larger animals — including humans. Their teeth are shaped like a harpoon. When they spot an animal that they want to kill, they inject it with venom. They actually produce two types of venom — one for animals they want to eat and the other as a defense mechanism against animals. Within a short period of time, the venom from cone snails can kill the victim.

Asian Cobra

The Asian cobra kills more humans by snakebite than any other snake in the world. There are really two ways these animals kill humans. One is by striking those who get too close, the other is by shooting a venom, which can kill in a short period of time. Several people die every year because of these animals.

Lions

Lions are known to be deadly, and they kill dozens of people every year. Historically, those who live close to these animals end up getting killed by them. Lions charge animals that they want to eat or those that pose a threat. Often, there are stories about hunters going after lions and end up getting killed by the animals. It is ironic, but the lesson should be simple: when you try to hunt for lions, you might end up getting killed.

African Cape Buffalo

African cape buffalos do not actively attack humans. They often are in a pack and are typically harmless. However, they sometimes attack and the usual victims are hunters. The African cape buffalo kills more hunters than any other animal. They are big and they are surprisingly fast. If you spot one of them in the wild, don't get too close.

Crocodiles

Hundreds of people die every year because of crocodiles. These animals can easily hide from other creatures in the wild. They sneak up on their prey and then kill them instantly. These animals have very sharp teeth that can rip apart skin with ease. Other animals will attack humans for self-defense, these animals would kill them for food. They can consume nearly any type of meat — including the flesh of a human.

Pufferfish

A pufferfish may seem small, but they can pack a punch. These creatures have toxins and poisons all over their bodies — including their skin and organs. In fact, one pufferfish contains enough poison to kill dozens of people. If you are swimming in the water and you see one of them, you need to get away. They will have no problem attacking humans they view as a threat.

Scorpions

Scorpions are known to be deadly, and yet thousands of people ever year still get killed by them. The scorpion has sharp claws, but the real threat comes with their venom. They are so poisonous that some humans can instantaneously die. Most scorpions can be found in certain geographic environments. Although they don't really kill humans for food, they can still see humans as a threat. Scorpions are very deadly and should be avoided whenever possible.

Assassin bugs

These animals are super small and super deadly. They kill thousands of human every year, so you should watch out for them. They bite humans and inject them with venom that causes Chagas disease. In case you never heard of this before, this can instantly cause organs to fail and people will die. Don't be fooled by these small creatures. They can attack at anytime for any reason, so watch out.

Black Mamba

The good news with the black mamba is that they only attack humans when threatened and they only exist in parts of Africa. But otherwise, they can be extremely dangerous. These animals are the fastest land snakes out there. They can quickly attack humans without you even noticing. They can inject humans with venom that results in death in just a few minutes. Don't ignore what the black mamba can do.

Dogs

Yes, even the most adorable animals can kill people. They are called man's best friend, but they are also one of man's most lethal killers. Most deaths are caused by rabid dogs. They are quick and can attack people with their sharp teeth. Dogs also share the same characteristics with wolves, coyotes, foxes, jackals and wild hunting dogs, so it is sometimes in their nature to be deadly. Most dogs are not deadly, however.

Flies

Even tiny flies can kill people with their poisonous bites. One example is the tsetse fly. Found on the African continent, this insect latches onto skin and sucks the blood of the victim. A tsetse fly can be recognized by its forward-projecting piercing proboscis located on the head, which the fly uses to puncture the skin. After the bite, the parasite multiplies in the lymph and the blood of the victim — causing unspecific signs and symptoms which can lead to death if untreated.

Mosquitos

There are over 2,500 mosquito species identified worldwide. They carry deadly diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, zika, and viral encephalitis. They spread these diseases by feeding from one host to another. Avoid being infected by wearing clothing that can cover most of the skin, especially when outdoors. Use of mosquito repellants may also help, as long as the instructions are followed carefully.
But the best way to avoid these kinds of diseases is by always cleaning the surroundings, as this will reduce, if not destroy, the mosquito breeding sites.

Humans

Simply look in the mirror to see one of the most dangerous species. Humans kill other creatures, including own kind, for personal gain or vengeance. From war to murder, the killing nature of humans dates back to primate ancestors. This innate violence is part of the evolutionary history. Modern society has reduced deaths from violence due to established institutions and laws. However, if resources are limited, humans will compete and will still kill, if necessary.

The world is full of deadly animals of all different shapes and sizes. Here is a list of dangerous animals in the world that can kill you with their might, speed, or venom.