21-06-2025
These are the 10 deadliest animals in Louisiana. Obviously gators, but what else is on the list?
Louisiana is often recognized for being home to a diverse range of environments, as the state is made up of three geographic regions with their own distinct environments.
Within these environments, a myriad of wildlife species with abundant populations can be found.
From large mammals like bears, smaller mammals like coyotes and bobcats, to birds of prey like eagles and falcons, Louisiana has it all when it comes to fierce predators.
Because of Louisiana's vast population of numerous species, the state is home to a number of animals that can be potentially dangerous, whether it's from a venomous bite, poisonous sting or an attack. In order to determine which species pose significant threats to humans, World Atlas compiled a list of the 10 deadliest animals in Louisiana.
While not native to the U.S., the brown widow spider can be found in Louisiana and predominantly reside within large populations and around homes or buildings. These spiders are venomous, however, they are considered less dangerous than black widow spiders, as brown widows are less likely to inject large amounts of venom and typically do not bite unless trapped or provoked, according to Healthline. These spiders can be distinguished by their mottled tan and brown color with darker markings, as well as by an orange or yellow hourglass marking on their underside,
Lionfish are a species of venomous fish that are native to the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea, however, they have been spotted off Louisiana's coast within the Gulf of Mexico. These fish have 18 poisonous spines in three fin locations and they are brown or maroon in color with white bands along their body. Lionfish stings are rarely fatal, although they can be extremely painful and cause symptoms such as sweating, respiratory distress and even paralysis, according to Lionfish Divers.
Buck moth caterpillars are native to the eastern U.S. and are categorized by their network of branched spines and white speckles across their body. The branched spines on these caterpillars connect to venom glands, and stings from the spines produce a painful sensation, followed by swelling, itching, redness and sometimes nausea. After being stung by buck moth caterpillar, pain can last over 24 hours and allergic reactions can develop, according to LSU AgCenter.
Brown recluse spiders are common in North Louisiana and typically reside in dry, secluded places in small, isolated populations, like in basements or attics. These spiders can be distinguished by their tan or brown color, with a darker, violin-shaped marking on the body where their legs attach. Brown recluse bites often heal without medical attention, however, in some cases, the necrotic venom has triggered skin necrosis, as well as other symptoms like headaches, body aches, rashes, fever, nausea or vomiting, according to Poison Control.
The apple snail is a species of freshwater mollusk that's invasive in Louisiana and can be found mainly in South Louisiana freshwater lakes, rivers, marshes, ditches, ponds and streams. Apple snails are hosts for rat lungworms, which are parasites that can infect humans through contaminated produce or undercooked snail meat. Additionally, apple snail egg clusters may carry a neurotoxin that can be irritating to the eyes and skin.
Eastern copperhead snakes are a species of venomous snake that can be found in Louisiana across a wide range of habitats, including wooded areas, near water sources, rocky hillsides and even suburban areas. Copperheads may bite if they feel provoked, but bites are rarely fatal. However, bites can lead to pain, tissue damage, swelling and bruising. Copperheads are usually two to three feet in length and are medium-sized with thick bodies that have a distinctive coppery-brown or reddish-brown color and hourglass-shaped crossbands.
Texas coral snakes are a species of poisonous snake found in Louisiana that primarily live in vegetated areas near water sources, as well as within deserts, forests, woodlands, grasslands, savanna and shrubland habitats. These snakes have short, fixed fangs in the front of their upper jaw and are characterized by red, yellow and black bands along their body. Coral snake bites can be fatal, although fatalities are rare due to the availability of antivenin, according to iNaturalist.
The pygmy rattlesnake is the smallest species of rattlesnake in the world, and they can vary in color, although, these snakes are typically a silver or gray color with dark brown or black spots down the back and sides. Pygmy rattlesnakes are often hard to spot and they will strike if they're disturbed. These snakes are venomous and administer painful bites, but bites are generally considered not to be life-threatening.
The Eastern diamondback rattlesnake is the largest venomous snake species in North America, and these snakes are typically a brown or brownish-yellow color with dark brown or black diamonds along its spine that are outlined with cream or yellowish scale, according to Louisiana Sportsman. This species of snake is also one of the most venomous snakes in North America, as its venom is a potent hemotoxin that can cause severe tissue damage, including red blood cell destruction and organ failure if left untreated.
American alligators are the largest species of reptile in North America, and Louisiana has one of the largest alligator populations in the U.S. Alligators are equipped with short, thick appendages that are suitable for swimming, and a powerful tail that's capable of breaking its prey's legs. These reptiles are territorial and motile, however, they are known to retreat when they hear or see humans.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: What are the deadliest animals in Louisiana? World Atlas says these 10
