5 Dangerous and Surprising Creatures That Live in Wisconsin

When it comes to dangerous creatures that live in Wisconsin, most people think of mosquitoes and ticks first, but there are several more creatures to worry about encountering the next time you're in the Northern woods.

Wisconsin's Most Dangerous Creatures

There's a lot of wilderness in Wisconsin, which means MANY animals call the state home. Yes, Wisconsin has bears, coyotes, even black widow spiders, but when it comes to the most dangerous creatures you need to worry about, here are 5 of the most concerning, (and surprising ones), according to AZ Animals:

1. Black Bears

Black bears typically try to avoid humans, but will become dangerous if they feel threatened. Also, NEVER purposely leave out food for bears because doing so will make them more comfortable around humans and that's when the real problems begin.

2. Rattlesnakes

Are you ready for this? Wisconsin is actually home to about 21 different species of rattlesnakes with the Timber Rattlesnake and Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake being the most dangerous! Just like black bears, rattlesnakes try to avoid any human interaction but if threatened they will bite, and their venom is highly poisonous.

3. Cougars

The cougar population in Wisconsin has decreased significantly thanks to hunters, but they still live there and will attack. If you encounter a cougar in the woods, back away very slowly.

4. Brown Recluse Spiders

Finding a brown recluse spider in Wisconsin is more rare than common, but the Door County area is where they are generally found the most. Keep an eye out for the irregular webs they spin, especially if you're staying in a place with a cedar shake roof.

5. White-Tailed Deer

White-tailed deer may be beautiful and seem harmless, but they are the leading cause of serious car accidents in Wisconsin. White-tailed deer can also be dangerous when protecting their young, so if give deer plenty of space when you see one.