Some animals are cute and adorable to admire, but only from afar. You will discover that on the list of most venomous mammals in the world are cute, small, and harmless-looking animals as well.
As you read this article you will discover that:
- Not everything is as it seems.
- Even adorable mammals possess venomous abilities too.
- Most mammals are to be admired from afar.
- Size and appearance do not matter in nature.
- Nature has its own surprises.
I believe, just like me, you just want to get this over with, so let’s go!
What are the Top 5 Most Venomous Mammals in the World?
1. Platypus:
The platypus makes number 1 on my list of most venomous mammals in the world, and this is because unlike the rest of the mammals that I will be mentioning as we proceed, the effect of the duck-billed platypus’ venom seems to be more threatening.
Although the venom from this mammal does not kill, the effect can be quite straining and may even last for weeks or months.
In fact, the venom from the male platypus is so painful that you may even find it hard to believe. You will feel a lingering pain in the affected area and even surrounding limbs.
The venom does not come from their bite like other mammals do; instead, it comes from their legs. Amazing right?
During the mating season, the males tend to grow sacks of venom on their hind legs (spurs). So whenever they feel threatened, they defend themselves by striking with their hind legs.
Normally the strike should not have any lingering effect; however, the venom that follows it is what does the trick.
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2. Slow Loris:
Making it to number 2 on my list of venomous mammals in the world is the slow loris. This mammal may be the cutest on my list, but its venomous abilities contradict its cuteness.
There are about 8 species of primates that are collectively referred to as “slow loris.” They can be found in southeast Asia.
Now how did this cute mammal make it on the list of most venomous mammals? Well, just like the duck-billed platypus earlier described, this mammal also has venomous sacks that are located beneath its forelimbs.
How then does the venom work?
- The mammal licks the venom sacks, and then the venom is transferred to its mouth.
- When they bite you, you are likely to experience a life-threatening allergic reaction.
People who usually capture them illegally often remove their teeth to make them less venomous; however, this inhumane act results in the death of the mammal due to the spread of infection.
3. Hispaniolan Solenodon:
The third most venomous mammal is the Hispaniolan solenodon, and these mammals can be found on the island of Hispaniola located in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
This mammal possesses a powerful bite which it uses to prey on the following:
- Insects
- Lizards
- Reptiles
The lower incisor contains the venom and transfers this venom to the body of the prey, causing paralysis and death thereafter.
They are very small mammals and should not be capable of carrying such an amount of venom or even causing that much havoc, but this rule does not apply to the small but mighty Hispaniolan solenodon.
Their venom is not enough (due to their small body size) to affect humans, though, unless due to allergic reactions.
4. Cuban Solenodon:
From their name, can you guess where this mammal inhabits? Yes, you are right, Cuba is home to the Cuban solenodon. The Cuban solenodon weighs less than 3 pounds and measures a length of about 16 to 22 inches.
You will often find this venomous mammal hunting at night due to its nocturnal nature. They live in hollow trees or burrows and will often come out to hunt for small rodents, reptiles, and frogs.
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5. European Mole:
Although other shrews are venomous, the European mole makes it to number 5 on our list due to its size. This mammal weighs about 3 to 4 ounces and measures lengths of about 4 to 6 inches (not adding its tail).
European moles can be found in Russia and the United Kingdom, where they have inhabited. Although this mammal will avoid humans at all costs, they won’t fail to inject you with their paralytic saliva if they feel threatened.
They often feed on small rodents, mice, rabbits, etc., and take them to their burrow to feast off them once the paralytic saliva has had an effect on the prey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Most Venomous Mammal?
What is the Deadliest Mammal?
- Lions (Panthera leo)
- Bears (Family Ursidae)
- Hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus amphibius)
- Tigers (Panthera tigris)
- Horses (Equus caballus)
- Deer (Order Artiodactyla)
- Elephants (Family Elephantidae)
- Human beings (Homo sapiens) traffic collision
What are the 1 Most Venomous Animals on Earth?
Conclusion
While reading this article, you should have discovered that not everything is as it seems. Some mammals may be small but still capable of delivering venomous stings with lingering effects.
While some mammals may be adorable or cute, it is advisable that they only be admired from a distance to avoid getting bitten or spending money on treatments that would have been avoided.
Do well to share with your friends and loved ones who are lovers of nature as well, just like me and you!
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