Wilderness Survival: Master 13 life-saving techniques for outsmarting wildlife encounters

Given the data, it is clear that many wild animals pose a serious risk to people's safety, with potentially lethal results. It's important to take into account the excessive fame some creatures have received. For instance, sharks only cause six deaths a year, which calls into question their notoriety. Each year, wolves are responsible for 10 fatalities, while lions are responsible for 22 fatalities. The horrifying reality that elephants cause more than 500 fatalities each year must, however, be faced head-on. Hippos rival elephants in terms of their deadly impact in this terrifying competition. Unexpectedly, crocodiles turn out to be much more dangerous than sharks, causing over 1,000 fatalities annually. However, the snake is the undisputed victor in this area, taking the lives of a startling 100,000 people each year with its venomous bite.

To equip yourself for any situation that may arise, we have compiled 13 life-saving techniques when encountering a potentially dangerous reptile.

Number 13 – Sharks

Only 20 of the 150 shark species that live on our planet are a threat to people. Simply put, most sharks do not consider people to be a food source, so if you don't look appetizing, you should be safe. Let's now examine the less favorable news. Breaking escape if a shark becomes interested in you can be difficult. It's essential to avoid adding blood or pee to the water because sharks can detect these compounds from a distance of many miles. It is not advisable to turn your back on this predator in the event of a face-to-face confrontation, especially if you are tempted to flee in a panic because doing so would make you look like prey. Instead, take your time and move gently and deliberately. If you become entangled by a shark, it is best to attack its eyes and gills, as these areas are most sensitive.

Number 12 – Kangaroos

It may surprise you, but kangaroos may be dangerous to humans. Such events, however, are more likely to occur when a person enters their territory and the kangaroo feels threatened. Follow these tips to avoid potential conflicts:

 Cough softly: Make brief, quiet coughs. This is interpreted as a sign of illness by kangaroos, lowering the likelihood of an attack.

 Back away slowly: Backing away slowly makes you appear smaller and less dangerous to the kangaroo.

 Avoid turning and fleeing: fleeing will only enrage the animal. Remember that kangaroos are excellent jumpers and can catch up to you in a matter of seconds.

By taking these steps, you can reduce the likelihood of an encounter turning into a harmful situation.

Number 11 – Lions

When encountering lions, it is essential to follow these guidelines:

 Maintain eye contact: Keep your gaze fixed on the lion. Avoid turning your back or rolling your eyes as this can signal vulnerability and trigger an attack.

 Create a wider presence: Give the impression that you are bigger by raising your arms and standing up straight. If you appear large and intimidating, the lion may not want to interact with you.

 Confident Project: Speak in a moderate and confident voice, with gestures. This behavior is atypical for the victim and it will confuse the predator, seeing you as a nuisance to avoid.

By applying these strategies, you can ensure that the lion sees you as an unwanted presence and chooses to keep your distance.

Number 10 – Elephants

Elephants are highly intelligent and generally friendly animals. However, they can become aggressive towards humans, especially if they perceive a threat to their offspring. When encountering an elephant, it's important to pay attention to its body language. If the body is curled up and the ears are pulled back, this indicates an impending attack. In such a case, it is important not to run away. Instead, try to find items or structures that act as barriers between you and the elephant. This can be stone or wood. Physical distancing disperses potential hazards and increases your chances of protecting yourself from harm. Remember that a calm demeanor and respect for elephant space are essential to safe interaction.

Number 9: Rhino

Due to their poor eyesight, rhinos are relatively easy to startle or provoke aggression. These animals can reach speeds of up to 60 km/h and are difficult, if not impossible, to overtake. The most effective way to escape a rhino is to hide under a tree. This is a big obstacle for animals. Additionally, rhinos are unlikely to chase you through thick bushes or tall grass.

Number 8: Hippos

Despite their seemingly adorable appearance, these animals can be very dangerous. Despite their heavy weight, hippos can surprisingly reach speeds of up to 30 km/h. Also, their temperament changes easily and they get angry easily. In hot weather, it is advisable to avoid treading on the bushes, as during periods of drought the water level will drop and the birch will hide in the tall grass.

To deter these animals and ensure your safety, climb trees, rocks, or steep hills to find higher ground. Minimize the risk of encounters by staying high until the hippos move away.

Number 7: Bulls

Contrary to popular belief, bulls respond primarily to movement and not to red or specific colors. Therefore, it's important to stay upright and motionless when a Taurus lunges at you. Use objects such as hats, T-shirts, and other clothing as distractions. Throw the item as far away as possible when the bull approaches. Bulls are attracted to objects thrown at them and change direction accordingly.

Number 6: Jellyfish

Jellyfish stings can cause persistent and uncomfortable pain. Some people believe that urinating in the affected area reduces discomfort, but that's just an urban legend. Instead, immediately rinse the affected area with salt water. Avoid using fresh water as it can make the situation worse.

Then carefully remove any remaining jellyfish tentacles with tweezers or a stick. If antihistamine ointment is available, apply it to the injection site to reduce symptoms.

Number 5: Crocodile

These creatures have the strongest jaws on the planet, which makes it very difficult to get out once caught. In such a situation it is not easy to escape. However, if you do get affected, focus on your eyes and neck as these are the most sensitive areas. Target these vulnerable spots to increase your chances of being released. If you spot a predator crawling toward you, zigzag as loudly as you can. Running and yelling is the most effective action in this scenario.

If you encounter an alligator while swimming, it is important not to splash or shout. These behaviors attract unwanted attention. Instead, try to stay as calm as possible and swim out of alligator range.

Number 4: Snakes

Most snakes are neither dangerous nor poisonous. About 80% of snake bites occur when people try to capture this reptile. If you notice a snake following you, tap your leg to create vibrations that confuse the snake and prevent it from chasing you. In the event of a snake bite, don't try to suck out the venom, like in the movie. Instead, wash the bite under running water, bandage it, and call 911 immediately.

Number 3: Bears

Bear attacks on humans are relatively rare, but they can still happen if you're in the wrong place and at the wrong time. It is important to know some rules of conduct. First, avoid running, as this can trigger a bear's instinct to chase you and bears can reach speeds of up to 30 mph. If a bear attacks you, lie on the ground and roll into a ball, covering your neck with your hands. Pretend to be dead, as this will make you look harmless. Stand still for a while, even if the bear walks away, as these intelligent animals sometimes observe their prey from a distance.

Number 2: Gorilla

Gorilla, known as the king of the jungle, is the leader who protects their family and territory. They usually won't attack if you are obedient. To avoid provoking the gorilla, sit down to look smaller and avoid overtaking it. Speak softly and avoid direct eye contact. In case of attack or approach, roll into a ball to protect yourself. Gorillas generally avoid attacking the weak and helpless.

Number 1: Bees

Bees guard their hive and can sting even if you are just passing by. Dark colors attract their attention, so wearing a black T-shirt will increase your chances of being bitten by these insects. If bees or hives are watching you, seek shelter in a dark place. Lack of proper lighting will confuse bees and make it harder to track you.

We hope you never find yourself in a situation where you have to escape from a rhinoceros, swim from a crocodile or encounter a hungry lion. However, by familiarizing yourself with these techniques, you can better protect yourself in the wild. Share this information with your friends to help keep them safe. Your likes and shares will allow more people to access this valuable knowledge, which can save many lives.