Deadly Texas: The Lone Star State’s Most Dangerous Insects & Arachnids

For the most part, I really enjoy spotting insects and arachnids in Texas, as we have an incredibly biodiverse state. And out of the likely millions of species that exist here, very few are at all harmful.

Which Critters Are Dangerous In Texas?

As terrible of a rap as insects and arachnids get, they are pretty far down the list of most dangerous animals here in Texas. Alligators, feral hogs, and mountain lions pose a bigger (literally and figuratively) threat.

In fact, the most dangerous animal in Texas is actually... deer. I know they look adorable and seem harmless, but the number of deadly automobile accidents they cause makes them the biggest animal menace we face as Texans.

Read More: Texas Ranks High In Deaths By Animals, Deadliest Is Surprising

What To Do If You Encounter A Dangerous Insect In Texas

Luckily for us humans, we are exponentially larger than creepy crawlies, so retreat is always an option. In almost every case, simply leaving the insect or arachnid alone is the answer, if you are outside.

Inside your home is another matter, and you don't want to find these guys in your bedsheets (happened to me once with a scorpion, I screamed like a banshee). The best practice would be to call an exterminator if you think the insect/ arachnid could be a dangerous one. Luckily, there aren't that many that are dangerous.

If the critter is not one of these listed, you are probably okay to slap on some thick gloves, long sleeves, and get to scooping the thing up in a jar to relocate it. I'd also use a piece of cardboard to scooch them in.

Less sympathetic? There's always the good ol' Texas boot for these creatures: