Animals are awesome. They add value to our lives and this world in uncountable ways. When it comes to animals, there are those which we adore over others. We all have our favorite critter that we need to visit whenever we go to the zoo. However, there are some animals that, as cute as you think they are, could tend to attack you. Here are eight adorable animals that can become violent. Think twice before getting up and close to these creatures.
Koalas
It can be heart-warming to see a koala hugging its tree, looking at you with its big, brown eyes. Yet, don’t let that look of innocence fool you. Koalas can become violent and attack dogs as well as humans. It is a rare occurrence and happens when the koala feels threatened as this lady found out when she tried to hug one.
Dolphins
Who thought these darlings of the sea had a dark streak to their personalities? Though typically placid and playful, there are a handful of accounts in which humans have been attacked. One such report is from Ireland in which warnings about swimming with dolphins were issued. The caution arose after two females received injuries from an annoyed dolphin.
Swans
These birds are so beautiful and graceful. However, that can be pushed aside by the swan if you get too close to its nest or territory. Being assaulted by a swan was an infrequent occurrence. Yet, swan attacks are rising with an increase in people taking up water sports. Though the injuries are minor to those who have suffered the anger of a swan, it is still advisable to adore these birds from a distance.
Leopard Seal
With their huge, dark eyes and cute nose, the leopard seal has you wanting to run up and give it a huge hug. But do so at your peril. These seals can be highly aggressive and bite you. It’s not common for these adorable creatures to lash out at humans; only one fatality has been reported. If you see one, don’t approach it, or you are asking for trouble.
Kangaroo
An iconic animal of Australia that is so lovable, especially when the females have the joey tucked away safely in their front pouch. Typically kangaroos don’t pose any threat to people. But when it comes to dogs, it’s a different story. Kangaroos see these as a threat and respond violently to protect themselves or their babies. Humans that get caught in a dog and kangaroo fight will realize how violent kangaroos can get.
Duck-Billed Platypus
Here is another Aussie critter to admire, but do so from a distance. The duck-billed platypus is a shy creature that usually will flee from a human rather than attack. That doesn’t mean that these animals haven’t given a person or two what they deserve. It’s not the mouth of the platypus that’s the problem as they don’t have powerful teeth. What you need to watch out for are the back legs which contain venom-filled spurs. If you get those spurs in you, you’ll likely need a trip to the hospital.
Pandas
Who doesn’t love a panda? They are so adorable. But don’t let looks deceive you. Underneath that black and white exterior is a bear. A bear that can attack you when threatened. Their bite is strong enough to break bamboo shoots, so imagine the damage they can inflict on a human. Oh, and the Panda won’t stop until it’s satisfied that the threat has been eliminated.
Squirrels
With their bushy tails and penchant for nut gathering, who would think that squirrels have a nasty side to them? Oh, but they do! These critters not only move fast, they think just as quickly. Squirrels can devise cunning defense strategies, but their main weapon is biting. As cute as they look, squirrels harbor a range of diseases such as rabies. As a pack, these animals can become deadly.
Cuddly Yet Deadly
We all have our favorite animals but don’t be fooled by how cute and cuddly they look. All creatures have their wild side. As you have seen, animal attacks on humans aren’t common. When a cute critter does react violently, it’s typically due to them feeling threatened or someone encroaching in the animal’s territory. Admire your furry friends from a distance. If you have the urge to get up close be aware of what you are about to face. Don’t blame the animal for the outcome. It’s just acting from its defensive instincts.
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