Did You Know Bambi is the Deadliest Animal in Michigan?! 👀

Some animals are super sweet and affectionate. Others are much more aggressive. After researching this further, here is a list of animals you should try to avoid at all costs in Michigan.

1. Deer

Bambi is more aggressive than I remember! While deer are not particularly deadly, they do cause the most accidents in Michigan. According to Outforia.com, Michigan is the ninth state with the most deaths caused by animals. Michigan State Police states that there are almost 50,000 reported car crashes caused by a deer popping its head in the road.

2. Black Widow Spider

No, not Black Widow from Marvel. However, Natasha Romanoff is extremely deadly! The Black Widow Spider is mostly found in the lower western part of Michigan. Its venom can cause burning, swelling, muscle pain, and diaphragm paralysis. Identifying a black widow is super easy. They are all black with two red triangles in the form of an hourglass. They typically stick to dark, dry areas like garages.

Get our free mobile app

3. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake

I have only seen rattlesnakes in movies and cartoons and I would like to keep it that way. The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is the only venomous snake in Michigan. These reptiles can grow up to roughly two feet long once they mature. The rattlesnake has a heart-shaped head and is either grey or brown with large brown spots. I would stay away from tree roots or under logs in the woods.

4. Black-Legged Ticks

Ticks may seem harmless but they pack a punch! The black-legged tick, or deer tick, can spread Lyme disease. They are roughly the size of a sesame seed. The ticks hide in the grass and claim a host for several hours prior to attaching fully.

5. Brown Recluse Spider

This insect is known to be one of the deadliest creatures in Michigan. To spot these spiders, the brown recluse spiders are brown with a violin-shaped marks on their bodies. Luckily for us in Grand Rapids, these spiders are most commonly found in the areas surrounding the Ohio and Indiana borders.