Southwest USA - Dangerous Animal Precautions?
In summertime, I'll be travelling around Southwest USA into various national parks and to other rural attractions (including the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion, Death Valley, Mono Lake, Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon).
There is plenty of information out there on black bears and mountain lions, and I am happy with what I have read.
What I can't find is information on the smaller, but equally noteworthy, animals - the snakes, spiders, and insects.
What should I know about these? How should I prepare (e.g. my behaviour and lotions to use)? What should I do if I am bitten?
Best Answer
There is plenty of information on venomous snakes, spiders, scorpions, etc on the web, just search with more specifics, ie: poisonous snakes in Arizona, scorpions in Utah, etc.
If you are simply exploring the parks as a tourist, walking the marked trails, visiting overlooks, etc, you need not worry too much about it. Most smaller animals will avoid us same as we try to avoid them. But that said it also never hurts to learn how to identify which are the venomous ones so as to give them more berth if you have a chance encounter with something like a snake.
If you are heading into the backcountry, thinking about sleeping on the ground under the stars, etc, then knowing more about the poisonous ones is a very good idea, including first aid for bites. Also knowing basic camping rules, like shaking out your sleeping bag before you crawl in, turning your shoes upside down in the morning and likewise shaking out any critters before you put them on, etc.
Be prepared but don't be paranoid, millions of people visit the parks annually and most never see a dangerous animal or insect.
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How can you protect yourself from wild animals in the wilderness?
Make yourself look as big and intimidating as possible, and make eye contact. You can hold your hands over your head, spread your coat, and use big sticks. Be loud, throw rocks and other objects, and show it you're not going to retreat without a fight.What animals Should I worry about in Arizona?
You may already know about Arizona spiders, scorpions and rattlesnakes, but here is some information on those creatures and others to watch out for.- Gila Monster. It is the only venomous lizard native to the United States. ...
- Rattlesnake. ...
- Africanized bee. ...
- Bark Scorpion. ...
- Arizona Coral Snake. ...
- Tarantula. ...
- Centipede. ...
- Brown Spider.
What is the most dangerous animal in the Lake of the Ozarks?
Copperheads and cottonmouths are the most common venomous snakes in the Ozarks though both species are found elsewhere. The copperhead thrives throughout the south and east while the cottonmouth is found across the South (and most people identify the Ozarks with the South).How common are animal attacks in Colorado?
(KKTV) - Wildlife officers say animal attacks are rare in Colorado, but they do happen. Black bears, mountain lions, moose, deer and rattlesnakes call Colorado's wilderness home, and there are surprising facts hikers should know. While deer are the most common wildlife people encounter, they can be dangerous.Where The 11 Deadliest Animals In The US Live
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Answer 2
Also, when camping overnight in Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon you are REQUIRED to have a bear bag for food or even carry a bear can (bag is not enough: bears are too smart): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bear-resistant_food_storage_container.
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