North America is home to many poisonous insects, but there are a few that really stand out from the crowd. Here are five of the most poisonous insects of North America that should be avoided if possible.
1. Africanized Honey Bee
More commonly known as the killer bee, this insect’s venom is dangerous to humans because of the rate at which they can sting. Found in the southwest along the U.S.-Mexican border, these bees typically attack in swarms of several hundred at a time.
2. Puss Caterpillar
Some describe this furry creature as “cute” but something this poisonous can’t possibly be “cute”. Located in Florida, this caterpillar is North America’s most poisonous by far. A single touch of the bristles can result in severe symptoms including vomiting, fever, and a drop in blood pressure, making medical attention necessary.
3. Maricopa Harvester Ant
One of the single most poisonous insects of North America is the Maricopa harvester ant found in Arizona. Researchers believe this ant’s venom is the most toxic insect venom in the world.
4. Brown-Tail Moth
Found in the northeast corner of the United States, the brown-tail moth is often overlooked as a dangerous insect because it resembles many other harmless moth species. The hairs of the brown-tail moth break off upon contact and stick in the skin like barbs. The barbs cause itchy rashes that can last for weeks at a time, as well as headaches and respiratory problems if inhaled.
5. Asian Giant Hornet
Although native to Asia as the name suggests, the Asian giant hornet has made its way to North America and has been spotted around the Virginia area of the US. Not only is the world’s largest species of hornet, it is also the deadliest. The stinger is a quarter of an inch long, and it only takes a couple of stings from one of these hornets to kill a fully grown human.
