When it comes to insects, we often tend to think that the bigger the scarier. And giant bugs terrify many people, but their size can be deceiving – the deadliest insects are not necessarily scary looking or large. Check out this list of the deadliest insects to know better!
10. Locusts
Locusts don’t directly kill people, but the crop devastation they cause can lead to the starvation of millions of people. Don’t think that it’s a thing of the past – fairly recently, there were infestations in Africa.
9. Bot Flies
Is there anything more disgusting than insects growing under your skin and eating their way out? Hardly. People who travel in the south of the U.S. border, in Mexico and through South America, must take all precautions to stay away from these parasites.
8. Giant Japanese Hornets
Growing to 2 or even 3 inches, this hornet has a toxin that can lead to kidney failure, paralysis, and death. This pest prefers to approach humans who sweat, smell sweet, drink alcohol, or are running.
7. Bees
These cute little honey-making insects also can be a danger sometimes. American honey bees became more aggressive and unpredictable because of cross-breeding. When an attack is unavoidable, angry bees are willing to lose their lives to eliminate the danger. So, if you have a bee problem, let professionals deal with it.
6. Mosquitoes
Despite their small size, they sometimes carry deadly diseases. Mosquitoes live practically everywhere in the United States, and they prefer warm places. Stagnant water is necessary for their breeding, so make sure that your yard is not a good place for them.
5. Fleas
These little parasites live on reptiles, domestic animals, and humans. Fleas are to blame for the Black Plague, Typhus, and lots of other devastating diseases.
4. Kissing bugs
Don’t let this cute name deceive you. In fact, it is a dangerous blood-sucking parasite. Besides, these deadly insects carry Chagas disease, which can be life-threatening.
3. Fire Ants
These ants build their colonies in soil and sand, they can be very close to your feet! If you’re not careful, escaping from them can be very difficult. Fire ants are territorial and protective of their colonies; their bites are extremely painful, especially if you have allergies.
2. Bullet Ants
Finally, an appropriate name! Yes, bites of these 1 to 2 inches in length insects feel like being shot! Sometimes they lead to paralysis, so avoid them at all costs.
1. Driver Ants
These ants originated in the Congo, where they make native Africans’ lives a real nightmare. When driver ants are marching towards people’s communities, they have to leave each time. Their mandibles are so strong, that the natives use them as sutures. Usually, the victims of these ants are caged chickens, tethered animals, and even babies.
