• Meet Our Team
  • Advertise on SCDN
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Contact Us
Wednesday, July 23
Scioto County Daily News
  • Login
  • Register
Subscribe For $1/week
  • Public Safety
    Sheriff night 1

    Stranger on the Porch: Midnight Door Jiggle Lands Minford Woman in Jail 

    body found

    Double Tragedy Strikes Portsmouth as Two Found Dead Just Hours Apart 

    Portsmouth Boy Punches Dog In Stomach

    🐾 DOG DRAMA AT THE POUND! 

    chase police chase

    High-Speed Chase Ends in the Woods — Suspect Now Tied to Another Stolen Car at Speedway 

    Ryan Joseph Miller

    “Didn’t Take the Hint!” – Man Busted After Allegedly Trying to Kick In Door in South Webster 

    Elder Safety

    🚨 “Mom Needs Protection” — West Portsmouth Man Busted for Violating Protective Order Meant to Shield Elderly Mother 

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 07/22/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    super mom

    The Gallia Street Incident — One Mom’s Love Shines Through 

    🚨 ‘She Hits Us With Sticks’ — Brave Girls Speak Out About Alleged Abuse 

    Forgotten Firepower: Loaded Gun Left in Rental Car Prompts Police Response 

    🚨 Banned, Busted, and Back Again: Homeless Crisis on Full Display at Local Businesses 

    Suspect arrested

    🎭 Busted on the Tracy Park Stage — Again! Homeless Man Arrested for Trespassing Amid Trash and Tallboys 

    Sheriff night 1

    Busted Before Breakfast! Deputies Catch Underage Duo Out at 4:30 A.M. in Wheelersburg 

    Weed, Whacks & Whoppers: Family Feud Ends in Pot Bust 

    Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

    Busted! 07/21/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

    Train 11

    “I’ll Kill You!”: Railroad Workers Threatened by Shirtless Man Near Homeless Camp 

    ppd

    Sports Bra, Suspicion & Summons: 3 A.M. Drama on Old Post Road

    Donald Lee Wood

    Busted, Broke, and Booted: One Man’s No-Good, Very Bad Night 

    Gazebo Showdown! Drunk Cyclist Spits on Cop, Gets a Face Full of Justice 

    Troubled Bad Youth Kids

    “Teen Tantrum Turns Turbulent!” — Unruly Teen Trashes Room After Sleepover Dispute, Taken to Group Home

  • Lawrence County
  • Politics

    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 

    Robert Horton

    Sudden Twist: Horton Court Dates Scrapped Ahead of Trial 

    Cathy Coleman

    ‘A Sign of Hope’: Commissioner Cathy Coleman Shows Small Improvements Amid Ongoing Critical Condition 

    Recorder Gary Jenkins

    Scioto County Recorder Gary Jenkins Unveils New Office Website 

    Staggering 236 Recovery Houses in Area — and the Fight for Reform Faces Pushback 

    Cathy Coleman

    Community Urged to Pray For Cathy Coleman as Family Faces Devastating Update 

  • Feel Good
    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

    good cops

    Lost Kid Calls Cops for Help 

    Backyard camping

    Backyard Adventure: Unforgettable Family Camping

  • Obituaries
    James D. Hannah

    James D. Hannah, 60 of Greenup

    obit-infant-small

    Bristol Rafalowski, 3, of Wheelersburg

    Walter Logan

    Walter Logan 56 of Portsmouth

    Paul H. Parker

    Paul H. Parker 85 of Portsmouth

    Ralph Burton Speck

    Ralph Burton Speck, 90 of West Portsmouth

    Barbara Williams

    Betty Lou Little Mullins, 91 of Franklin Furnace

    Shirley Ann Wheeler

    Shirley Ann Wheeler, 88, of Minford

    Betty Lou Ratliff

    Betty Lou Ratliff, 82 of South Shore

    Katherine Kay Bates

    Katherine Kay Bates, 76, formerly of Sciotoville

    Carl D. Cook

    Carl D. “Pork” Cook, 64 of South Webster

    Rachele Lynne McLaughlin, 44 of Minford

    Carol Lorraine Schmid

    Carol Lorraine (Meenach) Schmid 88 of Wheelersburg

    Darrell Kevin Lore

    Darrell Kevin Lore, age 69 of Portsmouth

    Helen Waughtel

    Helen F. Waughtel, 84 of Portsmouth

    Victoria Jane Lucas

    Victoria Jane Lucas, 73 of Portsmouth

    Wayne Pace

    Wayne Franklin Pace, 43 of Wheelersburg

    Yani Marcellus White

    Yani Marcellus White, 28 of Portsmouth

    Wade Donahue III

    Wade Donahue III, 74 of Columbus

    Michael Lee Milliron

    Michael Lee Milliron, 79, of Piketon

    Bailey Thon

    Bailey Thon, age 1, of South Shore

  • 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

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

🐾 DOG DRAMA AT THE POUND! 

James D. Hannah, 60 of Greenup

  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. 

  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. 

Please Support This Local Business

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

SCDN File Photo

Poolside Tragedy in Wheelersburg: Toddler Rushed to Hospital  

July 19, 2025
Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

Busted! 07/18/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

July 18, 2025

Mayor Call Cops on Fired Police Chief After Missed Deadline

July 19, 2025

Rachele Lynne McLaughlin, 44 of Minford

July 19, 2025
Busted Arrests Portsmouth Scioto County Mugshots

Busted! 07/17/25 New Arrests in Portsmouth, Ohio – Scioto County Mugshots

July 17, 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.