• Meet Our Team
  • Advertise on SCDN
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Contact Us
Monday, August 4
Scioto County Daily News
  • Login
  • Register
Subscribe For $1/week
  • Public Safety
    Ohio House Bill 247

    🐶 Dog Drama Sparks Big Bite Debate! Ohio House Bill 247

    👊 BROTHERS BRAWL IN THE BURG! ONE HAULED OFF TO JAIL 🚓 

    Two toddlers. Two apartments. Two terrifying wake-up calls. What’s going on behind closed doors? 

    Sheriff night 1

    💥DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHOCKER: MAN LEFT BLOODY, WIFE BUSTED AFTER BEDROOM ATTACK!🚓 

    🚨CRISIS CALLS: First Responders Save Lives in Two Close Calls 🚨 

    Deadly Crash 2 SCDN

    Tragedy on Local Road: Woman and 6-Year-Old Killed in Horrific Head-On Crash

    Teen Plots to Drag Friend into Woods and Stab Him 

    handcuffs jail arrest

    🚨Warrant Wonderland! Man Nabbed with FOUR Outstanding Warrants After Traffic Stop in Wheelersburg🚔 

    oopsie

    Bad Decision: Woman Tries to Hide Drugs During Warrant Arrest 

    Mental Health

    Text Message Saves Man After Suicide Attempt at Franklin Furnace Gas Station

    Celsius ASTRO VIBE

    🚨 SPIKED ENERGY ALERT! 🚨 That Energy Drink You’re Sipping Might Be Straight Vodka

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 08/01/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    Children in Danger

    Toddler Hospitalized After Getting Hold of Marijuana Vape 

    “I’ll Just Let Myself In”: Welfare Check Leads to Oversleeping Discovery 

    Police lights in rear view 2

    🚨 TRAFFIC STOP TURNS INTO JAIL DROP: MOM BUSTED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES 🚗👶 

    Jimmy Wombles

    🚨 CAPTURED! Accused Rapist Who Escaped Scioto County Facility Now in Custody 🚨 

    Jimmy Wombles

    🚨 RAPIST ON THE RUN: Inmate Escapes From Scioto County Lockdown Facility 🚨

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 07/31/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    Homeless Task Force

    Nowhere to Go: Homeless Woman Pleads for Help, Winds Up in Jail—Then Back on the Streets 

    Sunset Bowling

    🚨 BRICKS, BATS & BOWLING ALLEY BRAWLS! STREET CHAOS ROCKS THE AFTERNOON 💥 

  • Lawrence County
  • Politics

    We Don’t Do Roads!: Scioto Commissioners Clarify Who’s Really in Charge of Road Repairs 

    “I’m Not Here to Replace Cathy”: New Commissioner Merit Smith Says He’ll Lead with Life Experience 

    Merit Smith

    Merit Smith Chosen to Fill Late Commissioner Cathy Coleman’s Seat 

    Scottie Powell

    “Run on Vision, Not Attacks”: Powell Offers Advice to Candidates Vying for Cathy Coleman’s Seat 

    🌿 Bamboo Gets Fast-Tracked at City Hall — But the Homeless Crisis? Still Stuck in Neutral 

    Who Will Carry Cathy’s Torch? GOP to Choose Coleman’s Replacement July 29 

    Cathy Coleman

    Commissioners Back Senior Housing Project Championed by Late Commissioner Cathy Coleman 

    “Bad and Quirky” Lucasville House Targeted for Demolition as County Cracks Down on Blighted Properties 

    ‘A Great Addition to Heaven’: Commissioners Honor Cathy Coleman, Reflect on Her Legacy and Who Might Carry It Forward 

    Cathy Coleman

    Scioto County Mourns Commissioner Cathy Coleman 

    🚨TRIAL TWIST! Horton Corruption Case on Ice—For Now 

    Cathy Coleman

    Remembering Scioto County Commissioner Cathy Coleman

    somc 2

    🏥 Scioto County Approves Hospital Tax to Keep Medicaid Dollars Local 

    No Kings

    Scioto Dems Snort at “Well-Funded” No Kings Protest Claim

    Cathy Coleman

    Cathy Coleman Still Fighting: Family Shuts Down Hospice Rumors, Says Recovery Still Underway

    County May Tap Opioid Settlement Funds to Finish MARCS Tower Project 

    Cathy Coleman

    ‘Small Steps, Big Faith’: Commissioner Cathy Coleman Edges Closer to Recovery 

    Cathy Coleman

    ‘Praise God!’: Commissioner Cathy Coleman Shows Remarkable Progress After Harrowing Weeks

    Cathy Coleman

    Cautious Hope and Harsh Realities: New Details Emerge on Commissioner Cathy Coleman’s Condition 

    Scioto County Commissioners Cancel This Week’s Meeting 

  • Feel Good
    A group of friends stand around a table, smiling, laughing, and drinking. There are plates of food on the table.

    Creative Ways To Host Outdoor Events This Summer

    A family of two parents and a young boy and girl are playing laser tag with vests and laser blasters in an arena.

    What Activities To Offer at a Family Fun Center

    Shawnee State University SSU

    Shawnee State University Joins New Athletic Conference, Adds Football to Lineup 

    BREAKING: Commissioners Make Shocking Decision—Halloween to Remain on Halloween 

    Escape to the Hills: A Summer Reading List Set in Appalachia 

    Scioto County Champs: Lady Trojans and Word Wizards Bring Home the Gold 

    “I Held Those Keys Tight” — One Man’s Harrowing Journey from Addiction to Hope 

    Three girls in quinceañera dresses stand beside one another. The one in middle has a gold dress while the other two wear pink.

    Tips for Selecting the Color of a Quinceañera Dress

    The Day the Streak Ended: Lakers’ 1987 Record Broken

    An angler standing at the edge of a lake just after sunset with three fishing rods resting on the ground next to him.

    Night Fishing: Who Is It for and How Do You Start?

    good cops

    Cops Rescue Lost Man 

    good cops

    Kid Misses Bus, Deputy to the Rescue 

    A group of people stands outside with their arms in the air. They hold their hands together, making a pyramid shape.

    Hidden Gems: Community Strategies for Mental Wellness

    good cops

    Man Says He’s Trapped in Armory 

    Good Samaritan 2

    Good Neighbor and Officer to the Rescue 

    Portsmouth Flood Wall Stars

    Meet the New Flood Wall Stars! 

    A bearded man is sitting on the floor and comforting his dog in a wheelchair. The dog has his ears pinned back.

    Training Tips To Help Your Dog Get Used to Their Wheelchair

    U.S. housing market

    Tips for Making Your New House Feel Like a Home

    The Best Freshwater Fish To Catch This Summer

    The Best Freshwater Fish To Catch This Summer

    A man approaching the bowling lane with a red bowling ball as his three friends in the background cheer him on.

    How Bowling Can Improve Your Mental Health

  • Obituaries
    Paul Alva Winn

    Paul Alva Winn, 46 of Lucasville

    Pamela Lykins Jenkins

    Pamela Lykins Jenkins, 69 of Portsmouth

    Sophia and Olivia Boggs

    Andrea Gail Walters 43 of Wheelersburg

    Patricia Ann Bennett

    Patricia Ann Bennett, 85 of Minford

    Brian Richards

    Brian Richards of Upper Twin Creek

    Ann Thomas, 89 of Scottsboro

    Barbara Williams

    Marion Emma Wickersham, 80 of Otway

    Sheila Ann Puckett-Free

    Sheila Ann Puckett-Free, 50, of Rarden

    Gail Lynn Harris

    Gail Lynn Harris 70 of sciotoville

    Erik Lael Bryant

    Erik Lael Bryant, aged 54 of Wurtland

    Wanda F. Bender

    Wanda F. Bender, 94 of Portsmouth

    David Gershon McFadden, 84 of Wheelersburg

    Leroy Slusher

    Leroy Slusher, 89 of Minford

    Joseph Michael Ober

    Joseph Michael Ober 53 of Oberling

    Helen E. Brown, 89, of McDermott

    Dannette Ann Lowery

    Dannette Ann Lowery, 55 of Mentor, Ohio

    Kathryn Jane Zaayer

    Kathryn Jane Zaayer, 87 of Otway

    Kyle E. Redoutey

    Kyle E. Redoutey, 30

    Myrtle Maxine Carver Boggs

    Myrtle Maxine Carver Boggs, 85 of South Portsmouth

  • More News
    • All News
    • Arts & Entertainment
    • Education
    • Economy
    • Food & Drinks
    • Local Business
    • National
    • Opinion
    • Regional
    • Strange But True
    • Trending
No Result
View All Result
Scioto County Daily News
No Result
View All Result
  • Login
  • Register
Scioto County Daily News
No Result
View All Result

What is the Deadliest Animal in Ohio? 

Ross Madison by Ross Madison
4 months ago
in Ohio
Deadliest Animals in Ohio
ShareTweetEmail

Ohio, with its sprawling forests, lakes, and rural farmlands, is a beautiful state teeming with wildlife. However, behind its natural charm, certain animals pose a danger to human life. While most creatures peacefully coexist with humans, there are some that have earned a reputation for being particularly deadly. From large mammals to venomous reptiles, let’s explore the deadliest animals in Ohio and the surprising creatures that rarely come in contact with people but still manage to make their mark on human fatalities. 

Top 5 Deadliest Animals in Ohio 

  1. White-tailed Deer The white-tailed deer holds the unfortunate title of the deadliest animal in Ohio, though not for the reasons you might expect. Unlike predatory animals, the deer’s main contribution to fatalities is through car accidents. Each year, Ohioans are involved in approximately 200 to 300 car collisions with deer, many of which result in fatalities or severe injuries. These accidents are especially common during the deer’s mating season in the fall and winter, when they are more active near roadways (WorldAtlas). 
  1. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is the only venomous snake native to Ohio and while its bites are rarely fatal, they can be dangerous. This snake typically avoids humans, preferring to stay in the tall grasses and wetlands of Ohio’s prairies and marshes. However, when threatened, it can strike. Thankfully, fatalities are extremely rare thanks to modern medicine and antivenom availability. These snakes are protected in Ohio due to their endangered status, so encounters are increasingly uncommon (A-Z Animals). 
  1. Black Bear Ohio’s black bears are making a comeback, especially in the eastern parts of the state. Though these creatures can weigh up to 600 pounds, attacks on humans are exceedingly rare. Most interactions involve bears raiding trash cans or crossing highways. However, when a bear feels threatened or cornered, it can become aggressive. Thankfully, fatalities from black bear attacks are virtually unheard of in Ohio, making the chances of encountering one highly unlikely (WorldAtlas). 
  1. Coyote Coyotes are increasingly being spotted throughout Ohio, particularly in suburban and rural areas. While attacks on humans are rare, they can occur, especially when the animal is sick or rabid. These nocturnal creatures prefer to hunt smaller animals but can pose a threat to pets and livestock. Although there have been reports of coyote attacks on humans, they typically don’t lead to fatalities (A-Z Animals). 
  1. Wild Boar While not as prevalent as deer or other mammals, wild boars are becoming an increasing concern in Ohio. These animals are strong, aggressive, and capable of inflicting serious injury with their tusks. Though attacks are rare, the wild boar’s increasing presence in Ohio’s woodlands is a cause for concern. These animals are known for their temper, especially when they feel threatened, which can lead to dangerous encounters (WorldAtlas). 

Deadliest Animals in Ohio That Rarely Contact Humans 

While Ohio is home to a range of deadly animals, many of them are reclusive and rarely cross paths with humans. These animals may not actively seek contact with people, but they can still pose significant risks due to their venom, size, or natural behavior. Let’s take a look at some of these often-overlooked dangers: 

  1. Timber Rattlesnake

Though more commonly found in southern Ohio, the timber rattlesnake is another venomous snake that can deliver a deadly bite if provoked. It is a species that tends to avoid human populations, making encounters infrequent. However, its venom is potent, and bites can be fatal if not treated quickly. Luckily, most people who encounter timber rattlesnakes are aware of their presence and steer clear. 

RELATED POSTS

🐶 Dog Drama Sparks Big Bite Debate! Ohio House Bill 247

Backpacks and Smiles: When Does My School Start?

Tragedy on Local Road: Woman and 6-Year-Old Killed in Horrific Head-On Crash

  1. Copperhead Snake

Copperheads are responsible for a small number of snakebite fatalities every year. Though venomous, these snakes are not aggressive and usually flee when they detect human presence. They tend to blend into their surroundings, which can lead to accidental bites if people unknowingly step on them. However, these snakes are shy by nature and typically avoid human contact. 

Please Support This Local Business
  1. Moose

A rare sight in Ohio, moose are usually found in northern parts of the U.S., but their presence in Ohio is not entirely out of the question. These massive creatures can be dangerous, especially during the rutting season when males become territorial and aggressive. They rarely pose a threat to humans, but encounters can lead to serious injury or death, typically involving vehicle collisions. 

Let’s Bring it all Together 

Though Ohio may seem like a tranquil paradise for nature lovers, it’s essential to recognize that some of the state’s wildlife can pose a real threat to humans. From car crashes caused by deer to the rare but potent bites of venomous snakes, these animals are the ones responsible for the most deaths. However, many of the truly dangerous creatures in Ohio, such as the timber rattlesnake and mountain lion, typically keep their distance from human populations. By respecting wildlife and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy Ohio’s natural beauty while staying safe from these deadly creatures. 

Whether you’re hiking through Ohio’s dense forests or simply driving on its rural roads, it’s always important to be aware of the wildlife around you. Stay alert, and remember—most of Ohio’s deadliest animals would rather avoid you than engage in a confrontation. So, be prepared, be cautious, and let Ohio’s beautiful wildlife remain just that—beautiful, not deadly. 

Tags: AnimalsOhiopetsSouthern Ohio
Please Support This Local Business

TRENDING NOW

Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

Busted! 08/01/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

August 1, 2025

Andrea Gail Walters 43 of Wheelersburg

July 31, 2025
Deadly Crash 2 SCDN

Tragedy on Local Road: Woman and 6-Year-Old Killed in Horrific Head-On Crash

August 1, 2025

Sophia and Olivia Boggs

July 31, 2025
Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

Busted! 07/31/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

July 31, 2025

ABOUT US

We are a grassroots team of local journalists on a mission to give our community up-to-the-second news and events for Southern Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Western West Virginia. We believe progress inspires change and we believe our reporting has become the front-lines of Portsmouth, Ohio's comeback.

CATEGORIES

  • Arts & Entertainment
  • Casino
  • Economy
  • Education
  • Feel Good
  • Food & Drink
  • Local Business
  • National
  • Obituaries
  • Ohio
  • Opinion
  • Politics
  • Public Safety
  • Regional
  • Strange But True
  • Video

AREAS SERVED

  • Portsmouth
  • Wheelersburg
  • Minford
  • Waverly
  • Friendship
  • Ironton
  • West Union
  • Piketon
  • Coal Grove
  • South Point
  • Vanceburg
  • Grayson
  • South Shore
  • Greenup
  • Raceland
  • Ashland

SITE SEARCH

No Result
View All Result
  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Contact Us
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2025 Scioto County Daily News. All Rights Reserved.

No Result
View All Result
  • Login
  • Sign Up
  • Home
  • Trending
  • Public Safety
  • Lawrence County
  • Obituaries
  • Politics
  • Education
  • Feel Good
  • All News
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Team
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise on SCDN
  • Legal
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Service

© 2025 Scioto County Daily News. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password? Sign Up

Create New Account!

Fill the forms below to register

All fields are required. Log In

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In
No Result
View All Result
  • Login
  • Sign Up
  • Home
  • Trending
  • Public Safety
  • Lawrence County
  • Obituaries
  • Politics
  • Education
  • Feel Good
  • All News
  • About Us
    • Meet Our Team
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise on SCDN
  • Legal
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Service

© 2025 Scioto County Daily News. All Rights Reserved.