They say man is the most dangerous animal. But in Texas, these bugs are giving us a run for our money. When hiking, strolling through gardens, and generally exploring the outdoors this spring, be sure to watch out for these dangerous insects in Texas.
1. Southern Black Widow
The good news about black widows is that their notorious black-and-red exterior make them easily recognizable. The bad news is that they’re native to the Southeastern US and possess a neurotoxic venom. These spiders often find habitats in rock and wood piles, hollow tree stumps, sheds, garages, and outhouses.
According to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Southern Black Widow is typically non-aggressive, and though rarely fatal, a bite from the black widow can result in extreme pain, possible muscle spasms, and other symptoms.
2. Brown Recluse
Another unfortunate resident of Texas is the brown recluse spider. While also typically non-aggressive – “recluse” is in its name, after all – the spiders carry a hemotoxic venom that though mostly minor, can result in necrosis.
While the deadly lore surrounding brown recluses have been burned into many of our brains, the Houston Museum of Natural Science and PennState have noted that brown recluse bites are overdiagnosed. Bites usually only occur when the spider is trapped and feels directly threatened.
That said, we’re still not going anywhere near them.
Be aware of coming across these spiders under rocks, logs, boards, and the bark of dead trees, as well as inside the cracks of walls.
3. Texas Red-Headed Centipede
It might be wrong to judge a book by its cover, but with the Texas Red-Headed Centipede you definitely should. Spanning up to 8 inches in length, this crimson-headed, black-bodied, 42-legged centipede is creepy incarnate.
The Texas Red-Headed Centipede is common across Texas, though is rarely seen as as nocturnal predator. In daylight hours, the centipedes take shelter under rocks and leaves. Though bites in humans are rare – it mostly feeds on other invertebrates – the centipedes are venomous and can carry a very painful bite.
4. Africanized Bees
As of 2006, 163 of 254 Texas counties detected the presence of Africanized bees. Looking nearly identical to European honey bees, the Africanized bees will take shelter in trash cans, unused BBQ pits, hollow tree stumps, and in the eves of buildings. Aggression and temperament of these bees varies, at their worst, the bees can be extremely hostile which occurs in large part when they feel threatened and the need to protect their home.
5. Striped Bark Scorpion
The bad news is that the Striped Bark Scorpion is the most commonly seen scorpion in Texas, the good is that stings aren’t all that harmful. Typically found under rock and other debris – and taking shelter in vacant shoes left out overnight – stings from the Striped Bark Scorpion can result in pain, swelling, and inflammation. These, however, typically subside within hours.
6. Red Velvet Ant
Red velvet ants are actually wasps – why they’re referred to as ants is because the females are wingless. Ranging around 3/4-inch in size, these brightly colored beings are typically found crawling about dry sandy areas. Red velvet ants are commonly known as “cow killers” due to their painful sting.
7. Kissing Bugs
Don’t let the name fool you, kissing bugs are blood-feeding, disease-carrying creatures. Their name comes from the insects’ inclination to bite humans near the mouth or eyes. Though kissing bug bites aren’t necessarily painful, the insects are known to carry Chagas disease – one that nearly 50% of the population are estimated to have.
8. Asp Caterpillar
The Asp Caterpillar is a part of the flannel moth family. Hence the name, the caterpillars are coated in a soft, furry hairs. You must, however, RESIST THE URGE TO PET THEM. Asp caterpillar coats are venomous and upon contact with the skin, can result in painful rashes.
Look out for these deceptively furry creatures in garden plants as well as shaded trees. The asp caterpillar is commonly confused with the woolly bear, a fuzzy black caterpillar that is not harmful in the slightest.
9. Aedes Mosquitos
Do you hate mosquitos as much as we do? Well, we’re here to validate your ire. Not only are mosquitos a sure way to ruin barbecue, crawfish boil, or other outdoor party, but the pests – particularly the Aedes mosquito typified by black and white markings across its body – are also known to carry and transmit diseases ranging from yellow fever, malaria, and encephalitis.
10. Red Imported Fire Ants
Fire ants are widespread in Texas and can deliver painful stings. While a single sting is usually not dangerous for most people, some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to fire ant venom, which can be life-threatening.
See also: 6 New State Parks Opening In Texas, Two In Houston Area