As I share my walks and travels on these pages or on social media I am often asked from people around the world ‘are you ever scared about dangerous and poisonous animals when you hike in the UK?’
Many and varied questions. I have been struck by how many times I am asked if I come across things like bears, big cats, snakes or wild dogs here.
Of course if you know Britain you may think that is a silly question, but, in the far reaches of the world people will naturally know as little of our land as we theirs. If you live in places like Australia or Africa you will think it a logical question.
One great reason to travel is to learn and questions enable us to learn too.
I remember doing a hike in Canada and there were huge signs before starting the trail saying that you must never hike alone and to take all grizzly bear precautions and kit with you. No such thing to worry about when wandering up Scafell Pike for instance, but you can understand the question from someone from there who is learning about the outdoors in the UK.
One thing for sure is that cows get a bad reputation as dangerous don’t they.
Back In The Past
Britain did indeed used’ to be full of wild beasts, once upon a time. Some were around not too long ago too. The British Wolf (a relative of the grey wolf) was abundant and didn’t become extinct in the UK until the 1700s. The Romans wrote about how numerous they were, plus fossils have proven that here they were once as big as the Arctic wolf.
Up until 1000 years ago you would have seen Brown Bears roaming the British lands.
The Lynx cat was around until medieval times. Hunting and deforestation has been found to be the blame for these disappearances along with many others. So….. What are some of our current, so called, dangerous animals? Some maybe are in a way, some can be very wrongly accused.
The Adder
In Britain we have only one venomous snake, the Adder (Vipera berus). They are found all over the country, but, before you get scared of walking in the grass there is an issue, finding them!
Our Adders in the UK are not aggressive and really really shy. If they feel a vibration of someone coming they will just slide away and hide. Very rarely seen and stats show that since 1876 there have been only 14 deaths from an adder bite in the UK.
Modern treatments also mean there have been no deaths from an Adder bite since 1975. Compare that to 4 deaths per year from bees or wasps.
The adder’s cryptic coloration allows it to blend seamlessly into its environment, making it difficult for predators and humans to spot. This camouflage is essential for hunting and avoiding danger.
Adder bites, though often sensationalized, typically number in the single digits annually. Public education on recognizing and avoiding adders can further reduce these incidents.
The Spiders
OK, if you read the tabloid press you would think these things like The False Widow Spider are on the rampage killing all in their path. False. Nobody in Britain has ever died from a spider bite ‘from a wild British Spider’.
The False Widow Spider looks like a Black Widow Spider but thats it as far as comparison goes. If one bites you a local rash or local pain/itch may occur but nothing serious. They are growing in number all along the south coast of the country after entering from the Canary Islands it is believed. If you see one say hello to it like any other spider.
Harvestman (Opiliones) spiders, often mistaken for true spiders, are harmless to humans. They possess no venom and are not aggressive.
However, many people are really scared of encountering them due to their appearance. Single button bodies wih long thin dangly legs.
It is the same as with Daddy Long Legs in that there are big myths that they contain venom. It s a myth. These creatures are beneficial, as they help control pest populations in gardens and homes.
Dust Mites
Not a beast, not a wild animal but indirectly responsible for more deaths than a lot of UK animals. It is thought now that 20% of the population is allergic to dust mites. Linked to many asthma attacks and cot deaths.
Every single home has dust mites no matter what you may do but of course regular vacuuming and cleaning etc plus increased ventilation in damp areas, or when drying clothes indoors.
It is also associated with a lot of skin conditions and eczema cases.
The Cow
We have all read the (rare) reports of people being crushed by cows. Poor things, they then get a bashing in some press corners. I am a dog owner and a hiker so I will always have occasion to enter a cow field when out and about.
That being said the cow, statistically, is the most deadly mammal in the UK
Most of the time it is never a problem. The main reason they would gang up on hikers and pin them in a corner is, the dog. Cows are curious creatures and when they have their young even more so. If they do start moving fast towards you just let the dog off the lead I would say. The cows are not interested in humans and although you cannot outrun them I would let the dog run away as they could outrun them, and the cows will ‘try’ to go that way.
If you enter a field of cows, the first thing to check is for calves, avoid walking between the calves and their mothers.
European Hornets
When many people think of hornets they think of a beast of a wasp with killer like sting. In the UK they are our largest wasp type species and can grow to 3 cm or so.
If you are near the nest of European Hornets you will know because of the very loud buzz you will hear.
That being said there is a reason you don’t hear many horror stories about them. Despite their fearsoe appearance they are very rarely aggressive. If they do go for the sting it is only mainly to protect their nests.
The sting can be painful but relatively harmless, a bit like wasp stings, some people can have a reaction to them so need medical help.
Wild Boar
Though once extinct in the UK, wild boars have made a comeback in certain areas, particularly in the Forest of Dean. This is due mainly to accidental release of captive animals or illegal releasing.
These animals can be aggressive, especially during the breeding season or when they feel threatened. They are capable of inflicting serious injuries with their tusks, and encounters in the wild can be dangerous. Take special care if you come across one whilst walking your dog as the dog will generally lose in any fight.
While they tend to avoid human interaction, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance if spotted. Educating oneself about their behavior, especially if hiking in areas where they reside, can prevent dangerous encounters.
Domestic Dogs
Reports suggest that dog bites are among the most frequently reported incidents, with hundreds of cases each year. However, the majority of dog owners take responsible measures to ensure their pets are well-trained and socialized, significantly reducing risks. On the rare occasion that a fatality occurs it is well sensationalised by the press.
There is good reason for this though as we, as owners, are responsible for the behaviour of our dogs so fatalities should not happen.
The Red Imported Fire Ant
While not ‘yet’ native to the UK, the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) poses a potential risk should it establish a population.
Known for their painful stings and aggressive behavior, these ants can cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Their presence in the UK has been a concern due to their rapid spread in other parts of the world.
First they were found to have entered the US and now they are spreading through areas like Italy in southern Europe. A mix of a warming climate and the way they travel via big ports give a cause for concern.
Conclusion
While Britain’s wildlife may appear less dangerous than those found in more exotic locales, it is essential to understand the risks posed by certain animals. Adders, European hornets, wild boars, and domestic dogs can all contribute to potentially harmful situations if not approached with caution and respect.
Many people harbour misconceptions about dangerous animals, often assuming that all species are aggressively inclined. This misunderstanding can lead to unnecessary fear and an adverse impact on conservation efforts. For instance, while adders are venomous, they rarely bite unless provoked.
Education plays a crucial role in mitigating fears and promoting coexistence. By raising awareness about these creatures, their behavior, and the appropriate responses to encounters, we can foster a healthier relationship with nature. Ultimately, understanding leads to appreciation, and appreciation fosters conservation.
FAQs
What should I do if bitten by an adder?
If bitten by an adder, remain calm and seek immediate medical attention. Avoid using a tourniquet or cutting the wound, as these actions can worsen the situation.
Are hornets aggressive?
European hornets are not generally aggressive unless their nest is threatened. Maintaining a safe distance from nests is advisable
Are wild boars a frequent concern in the UK?
Wild boars are generally shy and avoid human contact, but caution is advised in areas where they are known to inhabit.
What are common misconceptions about venomous animals in the UK?
Many people believe that all venomous animals are dangerous and aggressive. In reality, most venomous species, like the adder, are reluctant to bite unless provoked.
