Nature can sometimes be beautiful, amazing, and awe-inspiring. It can also be incredibly dangerous, especially if you aren’t knowledgeable about all the harmful species that exist in it.

Sometimes even innocent-looking creatures can be quite dangerous to humans. We’ve outlined 10 seemingly safe creatures that actually pose a considerable danger.

Tiger mosquito

Mosquitoes are pretty much always annoying but they can sometimes be dangerous as well. These specific types of mosquitoes are dangerous because they often carry viruses such as the Dengue virus, Zika virus, or the Chikungunya virus. Found in Asia and North America, they are distinguishable by their white stripes.

Blister beetle

Found in the Palearctic region that includes parts of Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa, these beetles are dangerous to humans. They release oily droplets of a substance known as hemolymph when they are provoked. The drops contain a chemical known as cantharidin, which causes painful swelling and skin blistering.

Pine processionary caterpillar

Caterpillars don’t seem like they would ever be dangerous but the Pine processionary caterpillar is an exception to this. Typically found in North Africa, Europe, the Middle East, India, and Russia these caterpillars can cause extreme rashes if it comes into contact with human skin.

Common backswimmer

These insects were given their name because they swim on their backs. Evidently, scientists and researchers don’t put in a great deal of effort when naming such species. Regardless of their laid-back approach to swimming, these insects can be dangerous to humans. They can grow to about 2 cm and when threatened carry a powerful punch. Their bites are often just as painful and irritating as bee stings.

Beavers

Beavers are a crazy species. They look adorable and make for some truly precious anthropomorphized cartoon characters but they are definitely dangerous animals. Beavers can be highly aggressive, especially if provoked. They have some sharp teeth and often carry diseases such as rabies.

If you see a beaver, do not approach it. Just let it build its dam and be on your way.

Harlequin Ladybug

Much like Harley Quinn, these ladybugs can be vicious. While most ladybugs are completely harmless and fun to watch, the Harlequin ladybug can be dangerous to humans. Although they are not poisonous, their bite has been known to cause severe allergic reactions to some. This particular type of ladybug is often found in Siberia, Korea, Taiwan, Mongolia, and Japan.

Red slug

These slugs can grow to up to 1.5 feet in length and eat just about anything. While they are typically harmless, they are carriers of harmful parasites known as nematodes. This parasite is dangerous to humans as well as plants and animals.

Fire-bellied toad

These toads are distinguishable due to the dark orange, yellow, and red spots on its body. If you run into one of these in the wild, do not touch them. Their bodies are covered in a poisonous chemical known as bombesin. Exposure to this chemical has been known to cause fever, headache, and irritation in humans.

No matter who tells you otherwise, it is not a good idea to lick these toads.

Browntail moth

These moths have hairs that are actually poisonous to humans so it is best to steer clear of them. Any contact at all with these moths can lead to severe rashes. Breathing difficulties have been experienced by people who have breathed in their hairs as well. They are typically found in Asia and Europe.

Bombardier beetles

These tiny little insects might look harmless, but they have a rather unique defense mechanism. When threatened, Bombardier beetles will spray a boiling chemical at their enemies. These can cause a chemical burn in humans. Bombardier beetles are typically found in Southern Eurasia and Russia.

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Source: Naturespot/National Geographic