Essential Tips for Surviving Wild Animal Attacks

13 Essential Tips for Surviving Wild Animal Attacks.

Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Encountering wild animals can be both exhilarating and terrifying, as many species are capable of being dangerous, even deadly, to humans. If you look at the statistics, it might be enough to make you shudder. For instance, while sharks are often portrayed as terrifying predators, they are responsible for only about six deaths per year, a figure that highlights how their fearsome reputation is greatly exaggerated. Wolves, which are similarly feared, account for 10 deaths annually. Lions, another top predator, kill about 22 people each year.

Now, brace yourself. Elephants, often seen as gentle giants, are responsible for over 500 human deaths annually, as are hippopotamuses, their seemingly docile counterparts. Crocodiles are even more dangerous, causing around 1,000 deaths a year. However, the undisputed champion of deadly animals is the snake, which claims approximately 100,000 lives each year.

To prepare you for the possibility of encountering such creatures, we've compiled 13 life-saving strategies that could make all the difference. Watch the video, take notes, and remember to give us a thumbs up for looking out for your well-being.

13. Sharks

Fortunately, out of the 150 species of sharks on Earth, only about 20 pose a threat to humans. Most sharks don't consider humans as prey. However, if a shark does become interested in you, it can be difficult to escape. To avoid attracting sharks, keep blood and urine out of the water, as sharks can detect these from miles away. If you do encounter a shark, don't turn your back or try to swim away in a panic, as this will make you appear more like prey. Instead, move slowly and deliberately. If attacked, aim for the shark’s eyes and gills—its most sensitive areas.

12. Kangaroos

Surprisingly, kangaroos can pose a threat to humans, especially if you enter their territory and they perceive you as a danger. To avoid confrontation, make short, quiet coughs; the kangaroo may interpret this as a sign of illness and decide not to attack. Slowly back away without turning your back, as this could provoke a chase. Remember, kangaroos are excellent jumpers and will quickly catch up to you if you run.

11. Lions

If you encounter a lion, maintain eye contact and don't turn your back or look away. This prevents the lion from viewing you as prey. Try to make yourself appear larger by raising your arms or a piece of clothing above your head. Speak to the lion in a firm, confident voice. This unusual behavior might confuse the lion and make it see you as a threat rather than a target.

10. Elephants

Elephants are intelligent and generally friendly, but they can be aggressive, especially if they feel their young are threatened. Pay close attention to their body language. If an elephant's trunk is curled and its ears are pulled back, it may be preparing to charge. If the elephant approaches, don't run; instead, try to find a large object like a rock or tree to place between you and the elephant.

9. Rhinoceroses

Rhinoceroses have poor eyesight, making them easy to startle and provoke into charging. They can reach speeds of up to 37 miles per hour, making it almost impossible to outrun them. Your best bet is to hide behind a tree, which can serve as a significant barrier. Rhinoceroses are unlikely to pursue you through thick bushes or tall grass.

8. Hippopotamuses

Despite their appearance, hippos are incredibly dangerous and can run at speeds of 18.5 miles per hour. They have short tempers and can be easily provoked. During hot weather, avoid entering tall grass where water levels have dropped, as hippos may be hiding there. If confronted, climb a tree, rock, or steep hill to escape their reach and wait until they leave.

7. Bulls

Contrary to popular belief, bulls are not angered by the color red but by movement. If a bull charges at you, remain still but use an item like a hat or shirt to distract it. When the bull gets close enough, throw the item away from you. The bull will likely follow the object, giving you a chance to escape.

6. Jellyfish

A jellyfish sting can cause long-lasting pain. Contrary to popular belief, urinating on the sting won't help. Instead, rinse the affected area with salt water—freshwater will only exacerbate the situation. Then, use tweezers or a stick to carefully remove any remaining tentacle pieces. If available, apply an antihistamine cream to the sting to reduce pain and swelling.

5. Alligators or Crocodiles

These reptiles have the strongest jaws on the planet, making escape difficult if you’ve been bitten. Your best chance is to target their most sensitive areas: the eyes and throat. If you spot one approaching you on land, make as much noise as possible and run in a zigzag pattern. This is one situation where yelling and running are actually your best options. If you encounter a crocodile while swimming, try to remain calm, avoid splashing, and slowly swim away without drawing attention.

4. Snakes

Most snakes are neither dangerous nor venomous. In fact, 80% of snake bites occur when people try to handle or capture them. If you see a snake, stomp your feet to create vibrations that will usually cause the snake to slither away. If bitten, don’t try to suck out the venom—this can make things worse. Instead, wash the bite with running water, apply a tourniquet, and seek emergency medical attention.

3. Bears

Bear attacks are rare, but they do happen. If you find yourself face-to-face with a bear, do not run—this will only trigger its instinct to chase. Instead, drop to the ground and curl into a ball, using your hands to protect your neck. Play dead and remain still, even if the bear nudges or scratches you. Bears often lose interest if they perceive you as non-threatening, but be sure to stay down for a while longer to ensure the bear has left the area.

2. Gorillas

Gorillas are powerful and intelligent creatures that generally won’t attack unless provoked. If you encounter one, the key is to show submission. Sit down and make yourself appear smaller to avoid intimidating the gorilla. Avoid direct eye contact, as this can be seen as a challenge. If the gorilla charges or approaches you, curl up into a ball. Gorillas usually respect submissive behavior and may decide to leave you alone.

1. Bees

Bees will aggressively defend their hive, so avoid wearing dark colors, which can attract their attention. If a swarm or a few bees start following you, find a dark, enclosed space to hide in—lack of light will make it harder for the bees to track you. Cover your head and face as much as possible to protect against stings.

Conclusion

While we hope you never have to escape from a charging rhinoceros, swim away from a crocodile, or confront a hungry lion, these tips could save your life in the wild. By being prepared and knowing how to respond to these animals, you can increase your chances of survival. Stay safe out there!