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13 tips you should know to survive wild animal attacks

By Megan King

By Megan KingPublished about a year ago 6 min read
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Many wild animals can be dangerous or even fatal for a person if they look at the statistics. Sharks cause just six deaths a year, while their infamous reputation is very exaggerated. Wolves are responsible for 10 deaths annually, lions kill 22 people a year, and now elephants are the reason that more than 500 people lose their lives every year. Hippopotamuses equal them in this scary competition. Crocodiles turn out to be much more dangerous than sharks about 1 000 deaths a year, but the champion here is the snake. One hundred thousand people meet their end at the teeth of this reptile each year. In order to prepare you for any situation that may come up, we've gathered 13 ways that will save your life. Watch the video next and make notes so that you don't forget. Finally, give us thumbs up if you feel like we're doing a good job worrying about your safety!

Thirteen: Sharks

The good news is that only 20 species of shark exist on earth, and most of them don't see humans as food, so what good are you if not something tasty? Now for the bad news. A shark that becomes interested in you will be hard to escape. To avoid attracting sharks, prevent blood or urine from getting into the water. Sharks can smell these several miles away. If you do come face to face with a predator, don't run away in a panic because you'll appear to be prey if you do. Instead, move slowly and aim for the eyes and gills because they are the most vulnerable areas.

Twelve: Kangaroos

It's surprising, but kangaroos can actually pose a threat to humans, but only if you enter their territory and they feel threatened. To avoid conflict, follow these steps: cough, but keep it short and quiet, as the kangaroo may mistake it for a sign of illness and not attack. Slowly back away to appear smaller and less threatening. Don't turn and run, as this will only provoke the kangaroo - they are skilled jumpers and will catch up with you quickly.

Eleven: Lions

If you come across a lion, it's important to maintain eye contact and avoid turning your back or looking away. Doing so will give the predator an opportunity to attack. To appear more intimidating, try to look bigger by lifting your arms and standing tall. Speak to the lion in a confident and loud voice, making sounds and gesturing. This behavior is not typical of prey, and will likely confuse the predator, causing it to perceive you as an irritating presence and stay away.

Ten: Elephants

While elephants are generally clever and friendly animals, they can attack people, especially if female elephant mothers perceive you as a threat to their babies. If you encounter an elephant, it's important to pay attention to their body language. If their trunk is curled and their ears are pulled back, it may indicate that they are about to attack you. If the elephant approaches, do not run. Instead, try to find something that can serve as a barrier between you and the elephant, such as a tree or a large rock.

Nine: Rhinos

Due to their poor eyesight, it's relatively easy to scare rhinoceroses and provoke them to attack. These animals can run as fast as 37 miles per hour, making it difficult, but not impossible, to outrun them. If you need to escape from a rhinoceros, the best way is to find a tree to hide behind. Trees are substantial obstacles for the animal, and it's unlikely to follow you through bushes or high grass.

Eight: Hippos

Despite their cute appearance, hippos can actually be extremely dangerous. Despite their heavy build, they are capable of running at speeds of up to 18.5 miles per hour. Additionally, hippos have a bad temper and can easily become aggressive. During hot weather, it's best to avoid entering bushes, as the water level decreases during droughts, causing hippos to hide in the high grass. If you encounter a hippo and want to make it leave you alone, climb a tree, rock, or steep hill and wait there until it goes away.

Seven: Bulls

Contrary to popular belief, bulls do not react to the color red or any other color. Instead, they react to movement. If a bull is running at you, it's important to stand still and not move. Use your hat, t-shirt, or other clothing items as bait. When the bull gets close enough, throw the item as far away from you as possible. The bull will then change direction and follow the object, giving you a chance to escape.

Six: Jellyfish

Jellyfish stings can cause a persistent, uncomfortable pain. Although some people believe that urinating on the affected area can alleviate the discomfort, it's simply a myth. To alleviate the pain from a jellyfish sting, immediately wash the affected area with saltwater, as using freshwater can exacerbate the situation. Afterward, use a pair of tweezers or a stick to remove any remaining parts of the jellyfish. If you have antihistamine ointment available, apply it to the affected area.

Five: Alligators or crocodiles

These animals possess the strongest jaws on the planet, so breaking free from their grip is no easy feat. If you find yourself caught, target their eyes and throat as they are the most sensitive areas.

If the predator is approaching you on the ground, make as much noise as possible and run in a zigzag pattern. This is one of the rare cases when running and shouting is the best strategy.

If you spot a crocodile while swimming, avoid creating splashes or making noise, as it will draw unwanted attention. Try to remain quiet and swim away.

Four: Snakes

Although most snakes are not dangerous or venomous, 80% of snake bites happen when people try to catch the reptile. If you notice a snake following you, stomp your feet to create vibrations that will confuse the snake and make it retreat. If you do get bitten, do not try to suck the poison out of the wound like in the movies. Instead, wash the bite with running water, apply a tourniquet, and call emergency services.

Three: Bears

While bear attacks on humans are rare, it's important to be aware of some behavioral guidelines. Running is not an option because it will make you look like prey and a wild animal will instinctively follow you. Even if you think you cannot outrun a bear, don't try to do so, as they can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Instead, fall to the ground, curl into a ball, and use your hands to protect your neck. Feigning death is a smart option because it will remove you as a threat, and the bear may only toss you around for a while before leaving. Remain still even if it departs, as these clever animals may stay in the vicinity to monitor their prey.

Two: Gorillas

Gorillas are rightfully known as the kings of the jungle as they are the protectors of their family and territory. They won't attack humans if they are approached calmly and respectfully. To appear less intimidating, sit down and avoid direct eye contact while speaking in a low tone. In case of an attack or confrontation, curl into a ball to protect yourself. Generally, gorillas won't attack those who are weak and vulnerable, as they are proud animals.

One: Bees

Bees will defend their hive and can sting even if you are just passing by. Dark colors can attract their attention, so if you are wearing a black t-shirt, your chances of getting stung by these insects increase. If you are being followed by a swarm of bees, seek shelter in a dark area, as the lack of light can confuse and deter them from following you. We hope that you never have to encounter a charging rhinoceros, escape from a hungry crocodile, or face a lion in the wild. However, by following these tips, you can better protect yourself in such situations.

Take these tips into consideration if you ever find yourself in a precarious situation. Stay safe out there, enjoy life, and explore the world!

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About the Creator

Megan King

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