New CGI Technology Reveals What Historical Figures Actually Looked Like

Home Archaeology New CGI Technology Reveals What Historical Figures Actually Looked Like

Archaeology

By Trista - January 23, 2020

You have a favorite historical figure, such as St. Nicholas or King Tutankhamun, that you want to know what they looked like. It’s easy to go back and look at portraits of historical figures from the last couple of centuries, but taking a look further back than that is a little more challenging.

Thankfully, we now have digital face reconstruction technology that can give us a sense of their real faces from Cleopatra to Emily Dickinson. What is more interesting is that they look like real people! That does mean that some of your favorite historical figures might appear a little different than what you imagined – or even what their bust statues show, but the technology is spot on to what they would look like

41. They are showing what historical figures looked like.

New CGI Technology Reveals What Historical Figures Actually Looked Like — Mary, Jesus’ mother, is often depicted with blue eyes and fair skin like her son. Credit: Shutterstock

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

If you have ever looked at a photo of yourself and gasped that you don’t look like that, then you may have a bit of an idea of the headache that scientists get when they look at artistic representations of historical figures. Many probably looked nothing like their pictures suggest.

Consider Mary, the mother of Jesus, who is the subject of countless Medieval paintings. Those paintings tell us pretty much nothing about what Mary looked like; instead, they tell us what people in particular cultures and periods believed about her. But imagine computers being able to generate a more accurate image of what she, and numerous other people in history, actually looked like.

NEXT >>

40. Jesus Christ is traditionally seen as a Caucasian with long hair, but CGI says differently.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Jesus lived from circa 4 B.C. until C. A.D. 30 or 33. Referring to Christian beliefs as the son of God, Jesus Christ, or Jesus of Nazareth, people know the story of how Jesus came to this world and how he left. They know that he is the reason God forgives their sins, but what people don’t know, or didn’t before the technology of CGI, is how Jesus looked. Typically portrayed by believers of the Christian faith as white males and given long flowing brown hair, CGI decided to show that Jesus seemed utterly different from common belief.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

39. Jesus looked like a typical Middle-Eastern Jew.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Jesus came into this world through a manager in Israel. Because of this, many people started arguing that the Caucasian descriptions of Jesus were wrong. But, without an explanation of Jesus in the Bible, people continued to use regular portraits. Dr. Neave used CGI technology which is usually used in forensic anthropology and crimes to recreate the face of Jesus. He also followed the descriptions of many people from Jesus’ period discussed in the Bible. His team x-rayed three skulls from the Semite during that time.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

38. Jesus’ facial features follow those of contemporary skulls.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The skulls that the team used to help reconstruct Jesus’ features helped develop his eyes, nose, and mouth. The image the CGI technology shows of Jesus has a much shorter beard than the typical beard. The truth about the beard is it didn’t show up in Jesus’ images until around 400 A.D. People started painting Jesus with a long beard to give him a better teaching look. The shorter hair comes from the Bible as Paul wrote, “If a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him.” Jesus’ height is around 5 feet tall and weighed about 110 pounds.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

37. 3D and CGI technology brought Meritamun back to life after 2000 years.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Meritamun is best known because of her famous Ancient Egyptian father, Pharaoh Ramesses the Great. Once her mother, Nefertari, passed away, she became the Great Royal Wife to her father beside her half-sister. The great temple of Abu Simbel shows images of Meritamun along with many other temples. People remember her through the many statues that portray Meritamun, such as her statue at Queen at the Temple of Ramesses II at Akhmin. Many of these statues and scenes show the beauty of Meritamun and how people adored her.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

36. During the reconstruction process of Meritamun, researchers received much information.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The skull of Meritamun showed the smallness of her jaw and the roundness of her eyes. They also noted that the roof of her mouth is narrow and a little over 5 feet tall. One of the first factors the researchers looked at is her period. Unfortunately, they struggled with this step and looked at the decaying of her teeth to help them. Because Meritamun had much decay, they believe that she lived after the arrival of sugar or honey. Through the skull, researchers also learned she lacked red blood cells and possibly sent her to an early grave.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

35. Just as the statues and images show, CGI technology reveals Meritamun’s beauty, as well.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

With Meritamun’s mummified skull, researchers and doctors came up with what she looked like in real life with the help of CGI technology. Museum curator, Dr. Ryan Jefferies, stated, “Her face is kept upright because it is more respectful that way.” During the process, Jefferies never allowed any bandages to come off the skull because she worried about decay. Fortunately, through a C.T. scan, Jefferies and her team learned that the skull remained in good shape. It took around 140 hours for the 3D printer to construct the fundamental part of her head for facial reconstruction.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

34. We now know more about the ancient Egyptian king Tutankhamun.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Tutankhamun is the most well-known Egyptian Pharaoh in history. Possibly born in Amarna circa 1334 B.C., his mummy shows that he died around 18 years old. By his death, Tutankhamun ruled Egypt for ten years, becoming one of the youngest rulers in history. While Tutankhamun is one of the most studied pharaohs, historians still know very little about him. Other than his ruling, we know that he reversed nearly all of the new laws and beliefs that his father instituted. It’s also known that he had no children, and no one discovered his tomb until 1922.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

33. Many people showed disappointment over the real King Tut.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Because people didn’t know what the real King Tut looked like, they imagined a handsome king that all women wanted. After all, someone buried with so much gold and jewelry showed promise of such beautiful praise. But, the technology shows a physically disabled man with unflattering looks. The facial reconstruction of Tutankhamun showed an overbite. When tech showed the complete figure of King Tut, it revealed his club foot and woman-like hips. Researchers state that Tut could barely walk because of Kohler disease and his club foot, so he had a walking stick with him.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

32. Robert the Bruce was Scotland’s most famous king.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Robert the Bruce became one of the greatest King of Scots. He led one of the most critical battles in Scottish and English history. The king killed his enemy in a church, which caused him ex-communication. The story goes that the English king searched for Robert, who went to hide in the highlands. Unfortunately, the English captured his family and killed them after humiliating them publicly. During his grief, he noticed a spider who inspired him to seek revenge against the English king.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

31. CGI images show Robert the Bruce both with and without leprosy.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

While Robert Bruce’s hair and eye color are a mystery, a researcher’s best guess is brown, they know other features. During the 19th century, excavators found a skull around Robert’s burial site. It’s this skull researchers used to reconstruct the face. By his strong and muscular facial features, people believe his frame is the same. Because the skull showed an unidentified ailment (possibility of leprosy), they constructed a face with and without leprosy. Professor Caroline Wilkinson stated, “Using the skull cast, we…establish the muscle formation from the positions of the skull bones to determine the shape…of the face.”

<< Previous

NEXT >>

30. Johann Sebastian Bach has come back to life, thanks to CGI.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Best known as a German composer, Johann Sebastian Bach created many instrumental compositions. Some of his most well-known pieces are Ave Maria, Goldberg Variations, The Well-Tempered Clavier, and St. John Passion. Born in 1685, Bach became an orphan at the age of 10 and lived with his oldest brother for about five years. By the time Bach came into this world, his family already has many composers, but no one became as famous as Bach. People still regard Bach as one of history’s great composers.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

29. Bach sort of matches his oil portrait.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

From this list, you might notice that many oil painters didn’t always show their subjects in the best light. If you look at oil paintings that focus on Bach, they give you the belief that he was an angry man. By looking at his facial reconstruction, you get a different view. A Scottish anthropologist helped reconstruct Bach’s face and even gave people a video to view so they can awe at her artistic skill. While there are similarities between Bach’s oil painting and his reconstruction, one difference is that the rebuilding shows Bach as a gentle soul.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

28. Giovanni Battista Sidotti was an eighteenth-century missionary-turned-samurai warrior.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Born in 1668, Giovanni Battista Sidotti became a priest and missionary. Sidotti became a leader who didn’t always believe in following the rules. In the early 1700s, Sidotti decided he wanted to board a ship to Japan. At this time, Japan closed itself off from every other country. They didn’t allow outsiders in and didn’t want people leaving. It took a while, but Sidotti managed to find a ship to take him in 1708. As soon as he entered Japan, he disguised himself as a samurai, but he couldn’t fool Japanese officials. They captured Sidotti and held him until he died in 1714.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

27. The real Giovanni Battista Sidotti looks a bit more handsome.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Forensic anthropologists didn’t have a hard time reconstructing Giovanni Battista Sidotti because his remains are a bit fresher than other remains. However, the reconstruction of Sidotti only happened because archaeologists discovered his remains in 2014. The archaeologists sent the remains to Tokyo’s National Museum of Nature and Science, who worked on the reconstruction. While they had to reassemble Sidotti’s skull and found that Sidotti looks a bit different compared to his paintings and statues. While their hair color is the same, Sidotti’s nose is a bit smaller, and he could pass as your next-door neighbor.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

26. Lady of Cao possibly became a Peruvian ruler or high priestess in 400 CE.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

When a team of Peruvian archaeologists discovered a female Moche mummy in El Brujo, about 28 miles (45 km) north of Trujillo in Peru, they named her the Lady of Cao. They found Cao wrapped in several layers of cloth and with many ceremonial items. The archaeologists also found the remains of other individuals and believe these remains were a sacrifice. Through an autopsy, researchers learned that the Lady of Cao died in her 20s and possibly from pregnancy complications or childbirth. They estimated Cao’s death around 450 C.E. and believe she held the rank of a high priestess or ruler.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

25. Lady of Cao was reconstructed with CGI.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

It took nearly a year to work on rebuilding the “tattooed lady,” professionally known as Lady of Cao. She received the nickname the “tattooed lady” because she showed tattoos on her mummified remains. Employees from Peru’s Ministry of Culture and forensic archaeologists used 3D imaging and Cao’s skull structure to recreate the image. After they completed the facial features, they continued their research to construct the whole body. Researchers are further using the Lady of Cao to learn more about her culture and Moche ceremonies.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

24. Egypt’s Queen Nefertiti has undergone a transformation, before and after CGI.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Best known as the wife of the Egyptian Pharaoh, Akhenaten, the couple made history with many of their decisions during the 18th dynasty. One of the most significant changes the couple made in Egypt is the decision to worship one god, the sun disc, also known as Aten. They also ruled Egypt during one of the country’s wealthiest times in history. Many people feel that Nefertiti ruled Egypt for some time, before King Tut, after her husband’s death. Nefertiti’s many titles were Lady of Grace, Great of Praises, and Lady of all Women.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

23. CGI confirms that the Egyptian queen was remarkably beautiful.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

By reading Nefertiti’s history and how much Egyptians loved her, people believe she was one of the most beautiful rulers in Egypt’s history. The bust statues and paintings of Nefertiti confirmed this belief. The 3D imaging completed of Nefertiti’s face further confirmed that she was rather beautiful. The biggest problem that happened after Nefertiti’s CGI reconstruction is the constant debate about her skin color. Many people feel that scientists and researchers whitewashed her. However, the people who worked on the imaging stated that after over 500 hours, they followed the skin tone the best they could.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

22. Maximilien de Robespierre received the star treatment with his oil paintings.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

A French Statesman and lawyer, Maximilien de Robespierre, holds a place in history as one of the most significant influences from the French Revolution. He spent his time campaigning for manhood suffrage, abolishing slavery, and abolishing celibacy for the clergy. Because of all his social work, Robespierre became known as the voice for the voiceless, and someone’s people began to admire his outspoken nature. During the Reign of Terror, he oversaw the arrest and execution of many politicians and other people who opposed the French Revolution.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

21. But Maximilien de Robespierre was less attractive than his portraits suggest.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Many people look at the CGI reconstruction of Maximilien de Robespierre and see someone who is not flawless – at least on the outside. Other people tried to restore Robespierre, but they didn’t make him look like the CGI version, which is the most accurate. No matter what you think about the CGI reconstruction compared to the oil paintings, one factor for sure is that Robespierre is still an influential historical figure. If you don’t think he was handsome on the outside, you can even agree that he was a kind and gentle human being on the inside.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

20. Mary Queen Of Scots was a famous Medieval ruler.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Born in 1542, Mary Queen of Scots is also known as Queen Mary I. She ruled Scotland from 1542, just a few days after her birth and her father’s death. That means that regents carried out her reign during the first several years. In 1567, Scottish Nobles forced the Queen to abdicate, and she sought the protection of Queen Elizabeth I. Unfortunately, Mary couldn’t escape, and authorities soon imprisoned her. Blaming her cousin, Mary tried to have Queen Elizabeth assassinated, but people learned of this plan and later executed Mary.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

19. The real Mary Queen of Scots was quite lovely.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

One of the most surprising factors about CGI technology is that it makes someone look incredibly human. Researchers at the University of Dundee decided to look at what Mary Queen of Scots would look like as an adult. Other than the most up-to-date technology and 3D imaging, they used craniofacial templates. Of course, they also took little clues from the history of Scotland and Mary’s portraits. Take a moment to think about how realistic Mary looks and that she is someone you could meet on the street and not think twice. The technology we have today is stunning!

<< Previous

NEXT >>

18. Cleopatra’s likeness has also been recreated with CGI, and the results are not what you might expect.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Well, you probably don’t see a statue of Cleopatra when you think of her. You possibly imagine Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Cleopatra in the movie Cleopatra. However, the film was made for Hollywood and did not accurately portray the real Cleopatra’s looks, basically because people had next to nothing to go on for the film. Other than being known as a love interest of Julius Caesar and a spouse to Mark Antony, she helped build the Egyptian economy by establishing trade. She also became a pop culture icon over the last few decades.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

17. Cleopatra was a bit homely and plain compared to her built-up legacy.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Sorry, Elizabeth Taylor, but your portrayal, while showcasing her beauty, is not truly what Cleopatra looked like. According to CGI technology, Cleopatra showed beauty but also had the girl next door image. The most significant difference one can see between her paintings and sculptures is that CGI believes her nose is a bit bigger. However, her lips and some of her other features are similar. As we can see natural beauty in Cleopatra, she believed she possessed more than beauty. She thought she was the reincarnation of the Egyptian goddess Isis.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

16. William Shakespeare was one of the best, and most-quoted, writers in history.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

It’s not easy writing about William Shakespeare because people tend to know so much about him. In fact, he is one of the most studied writers in schools. You probably remember reading at least one of his plays or watching a movie that portrayed him. But, here are some facts that you might not know. Throughout his career, Shakespeare invented over 1,700 words. He wrote over 150 sonnets and at least 37 plays, such as Hamlet, Macbeth, Julius Caesar, and Romeo and Juliet. He passed away in 1616, the same year as his wife, Anne Hathaway.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

15. Will the real William Shakespeare please stand up?

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

So, you might wonder what exactly happened to William Shakespeare because he looks nearly nothing like his oil paintings. Other than this is a slightly older version of Shakespeare, at least compared to some of his artwork; the truth is that painters could make adjustments. Most people see Shakespeare as a man with a receding hairline but shoulder-length brown wavy hair. Sometimes he has a beard, and other times, he has a mustache. He’s rarely been painted or drawn with no hair or graying hair. Then again, we can’t tell what type of hair he had.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

14. George Washington was the first president of the United States.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

There are many reasons people know who George Washington is. He is one of the most studied United States presidents in schools. It seems that people can’t get enough of Washington. This man became one of the most active military leaders of his time and demanded perfection of himself. Known as a Founding Father, Washington became the first President of the United States under the constitution. He lived the life of one of the greatest men in American history and had his share of troubles. For instance, many people disliked most of the decisions Washington made as president.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

13. He was also one of the first historical figures to have his likeness recreated through CGI.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

George Washington held many firsts, and with his incredible historical presence, it’s no wonder researchers quickly looked to create his face out of CGI technology. It doesn’t seem that Washington impresses people as much as other historical figures on this list, but the reconstruction process is impressive. Unlike most CGI reconstructions, the researchers didn’t have a corpse, so they used a black and white photograph of Washington. Other than looking slightly different from his portraits, Washington seems incredibly realistic. If you look at the picture long enough, you can imagine him moving like anyone else.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

12. Ava was an unknown person who lived during the Bronze Age.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Ava, also known as Achavanich, died about 3,700 years ago. While no one knows exactly who she is, researchers decided to call her Ava, and people made her famous because she is one of the oldest corpses. Researchers use Ava as a key to helping them understand the Bronze Age, as so much of the corpse is well preserved. It’s a miracle that her bones remained in stable condition for thousands of years. For the scientists who decided to create a CGI image of Ava, her corpse became incredibly important.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

11. She actually looks like a typical Western woman.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

When you look at the CGI image of Ava, you might think she looks like someone you know. That became a shocking realization to many people, including some of the researchers. Some people feel that a woman who is nearly 4,000 years old would look a little different. Other than her hair and eye color, all CGI imagery has shown similar facial features. Archaeologists Maya Hoole and her team focused on creating Ava’s image using several of her bones, including her skull and teeth. One factor to note is that Ava has a rounder and shorter face, which is evident with her head.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. Emily Dickinson is one of the most famous poets in history.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Emily Dickinson is probably one of the greatest female poets of all time – or at least from the United States. She was born in Massachusetts in 1830. Dickinson always showed people that she was different from other women her age. She attended a girls-only school for a year, and while she impacted people with her poetry, she remained isolated from the other students. By 1860 she tried to completely cut herself off from the rest of the world and focus on her writing. The world never appreciated Dickinson until the 1890s when they started reading her poetry.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. CGI added a few personalities touches to make her look a bit like a camera-wielding hipster.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

When researchers created the CGI imagery of Emily Dickinson, they decided to give her a unique look. While she doesn’t seem to fit into our social media society, especially with her love of isolation, she does give off a quiet, creative, calm, and romantic look. Apparently, CGI researchers felt through her pictures and writing that Dickinson would make a great hipster, so they constructed her image by giving her a camera, long messy hair, and warm clothing. Decide if this look suits Dickinson by reading some of her poetry.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. Anthony of Padua is one of the most well-known saints of the Catholic church.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Saint Anthony was a priest in the Franciscan order during the thirteenth century. He had ambitions of traveling from his native Italy to the North African country of Morocco so that he could preach the gospel to Muslims and, with a bit of luck, be martyred in the process. He never completed the journey to Morocco, but he spent a good many years teaching theology in Bologna. After his death, he became beatified (made into a saint) because of his reputation for performing miracles. Particularly among Italian Catholics, he is one of the most revered and famous saints.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. CGI technology is revealing what he may have looked like.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Monks have mostly been poor, and Franciscans, in particular, took vows of poverty upon entering the order. Despite Anthony’s fame even during his own lifetime, we have no idea what he looked like, as he probably did not have the money for his portrait to be painted. However, that scenario is changing now, and the Catholic faithful who revere Anthony is finding the opportunity to see what their beloved saint may have looked like. Tedious facial reconstructions give us a picture of what his (very much human) appearance actually was.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Nicolaus Copernicus revolutionized Medieval science.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

In the Middle Ages, the most widely held theories about the universe were geocentric, meaning that the earth was the center of everything. The sun, stars, and all other celestial bodies revolved around it. Copernicus ushered in a scientific revolution when he demonstrated that the solar system is heliocentric, meaning that the sun is at the center rather than the earth. His discoveries were so significant that they helped paved the way for Galileo’s theories, which came a few years later.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. We now have CGI images to compare to his oil portrait.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Copernicus was wealthy enough during his lifetime to have an artist paint an oil portrait of him. While oil portraits are not necessarily inaccurate, they emphasize a person’s best features and play down those that are less appealing. Come on; if you were paying tens of thousands of dollars to paint a picture of you, you would want that person to leave out your double chin. CGI images have reconstructed Copernicus’ likeness and produced a shot not far off from his oil portrait. His features were probably less severe than his picture suggests.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Good King Henry was the first French monarch from the House of Bourbon.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Less alcoholic than the name suggests (or perhaps more, who can say for sure), King Henry IV, better known as Good King Henry, ruled over France from 1589 to 1610. He lived during a time of immense turmoil over religion (especially Protestants versus Catholics) and geography. Good King Henry professed to be a Protestant in a time and place when most of his people were Catholic. He survived 12 assassination attempts but ultimately was killed by a radical Catholic. His legacy lived on in the French national anthem that was played until the end of the monarchy, as well as in Henriade by Voltaire.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. CGI images show us what Good King Henry probably really looked like.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Like so many other wealthy people from the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance period, Henry IV had artists create oil portraits of him. While his images show him as super masculine (except for the tights and high heels, but those were the height of men’s fashion in his day), CGI imagery suggests a much more human-looking face. Henry IV probably looked a lot like the guy next door, or maybe a kindly gentleman living in a retirement community. His face may have been much kinder and gentler than his oil portraits suggest, but he was a king and needed to promote a view of himself that would lend both confidence and fear to his reputation.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Nero was one of the most-feared Roman emperors.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Nero’s name alone is associated with the torture and persecution of many of his own countrymen, particularly the Christians. The story goes that he set the city of Rome on fire to rebuild it in even more grandeur than before (which is why Nero fiddled while Rome burned). He had to find a scapegoat for the fire, so he blamed the new religious group emerging from Palestine: the Christians. Thus began horrifying persecution in which he would feed Christians to lions for entertainment and turn them into human torches for his own ceremonies.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

1. CGI technology reveals that this feared and loathed emperor was very much a human man.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

While the Christians suffering persecution under Nero may have believed that he was the devil incarnate, we know that he was indeed mortal from looking at his image. CGI has given us this opportunity to break into the past and reveal that the most larger-than-life figures in human history were very much like the rest of us. Indeed, given different circumstances, they could have been us, and we could have been them. Despite Cleopatra’s stories, she was much less beautiful than claimed, while unknown cave people were strikingly lovely. Kings with leprosy have had their noses taken off so we can see what they looked like, and deformed pharaohs have had their real features revealed.

<< Previous

Home Biology Avoid these Venomous Animals at All Costs

Biology

Avoid these Venomous Animals at All Costs

By Joe Burgett - January 20, 2020

When you think about dangerous animals, everyone thinks of two different types. Often, we think about those bigger than we are or those that just happen to be of the bigger variety like bears. Meanwhile, the rest of us think about the most venomous animals on the planet. Most of those can kill us much faster than even some larger animals. We often overlook this, but it’s to our own peril. Funny enough, most of these venomous animals are actually pretty small. Others pack venom in them that we do not even realize. The worst of these animals may very well be those that have venom that does not kill but can mess people up. Sometimes just one bite can put you into pain that lasts for weeks to years.

Others pack so much venom that it causes an infection. This can be enough to make some arms and legs be removed to save the rest of the body. In some others, severe nerve damage comes into play as well as muscle and tendon damage. This can make arms, legs, or certain areas of the body almost obsolete. All of it can be caused by just one bite or sting. Some of these animals are unknown or we may see them all the time yet do not fear them enough. That will come to an end very soon, as you see what each of these animals can do. Not all of these animals will cause death in those that they attack, but they all will cause pain. Whether you’re trying to prevent pain, long-term damage to your body, or save your own life. Each of these venomous animals should be feared!

Black Mamba

Avoid these Venomous Animals at All Costs — *Black Mamba. Photo Credit: Unsplash*

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom Type: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 1 Hour

The Kobe Bryant of snakes, the Black Mamba is notable for its aggression and the speed of its venom killing. They have now become the most feared snake in Africa, with most bites becoming fatal in humans. It seems local tribal people die the most from them, likely due to not getting medical attention in time.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their venom is a vicious neurotoxin that can take 10 minutes or less to affect people. Even bigger adults see symptoms really quickly. This venom is very fatal and can kill humans in an hour, with many taking less than 30 minutes to do so. Even when antivenom is administered, some side effects can go on for months.

Bullet Ant

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Poneratoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Hours If Allergic, Death Unlikely If Not

Bullet Ants are notable for their vicious sting. While they are a species of ant, they come off more like wasps due to their stinger being present. This is not really common among most ants, which is why they stand out. Its sting is the highest rated on the notable Schmitt Pain Index, which has gained them worldwide recognition for having the most painful sting among insects in the world.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Outside of its sting, they also have sharp pinchers up front that make them a problem to mess with. While their sting does pack a punch venom-wise, it is typically not enough to kill most human beings. Although, it could kill anyone who happens to be allergic. Their sting contains Poneratoxin, which is a neurotoxic peptide. This can affect the central nervous system and might be very well why their sting hurts so much. The pain from one can last 24 to 36 hours!

Komodo Dragon

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Toxic Saliva (Likely A Form Of Hemotoxin)
Typical Kill Time: Several Days For Humans (Usually No Death Occurs)

Komodo Dragons are dangerous animals, capable of killing even a human being if a pack chose to do so. They are a type of monitor lizard, among the biggest lizards on the planet today. Most look like modern-day dinosaurs! They can grow up to 10 feet and weigh 150lbs too. Their bite itself, like crocodiles, is strong and capable of killing just about everything. However, their bite also comes with saliva that comes from two glands in their lower jaw.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

This saliva is venomous as it contains toxin proteins. Most animals who do not die from the bite, usually die from the venom. The main thing this venom contains is an anticoagulant, making it hard to stop bleeding from their original bite. They do not tend to go after humans, but they might attack if you get around a lot of them. Usually, the highest population of Komodo Dragons will be located in Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda, where they have been living for millions of years.

Death Adder

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 3 to 6 Hours (depending on a person’s size)

The Death Adder is considered one of the most poisonous snakes pound-for-pound on the planet today. There are 9 different species of Death Adder as of the last count. All of them are incredibly venomous. Yet some say there are only 7, depending on who you ask. That said, the creatures can be found in both Australia & New Guinea.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

They most resemble vipers but happen to be more closely related to cobras & coral snakes. It is clear that they are just as deadly. They inject 40 to 100mg of venom with their bite. It mostly uses a neurotoxin only but it is incredibly deadly. This will cause paralysis and eventually respiratory failure. Before its antivenom was introduced, Adder bites led to death at least 50% of the time. Now it is rare to see death from one unless you do not get treatment in at least 6 hours.

Black Widow Spider

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Latrotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Minutes To Hours (Allergic Reaction)

The Black Widow Spider gets its name from the fact that they kill their mates, which is terrifying alone. It’s often noted that you can see an hourglass of some type on one to know if they are venomous animals or not. We wouldn’t get too close to see, however. They have a venom known as Latrotoxin. The name comes from the scientific name for the Black Widow, the Latrodectus.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

It’s a neurotoxin that typically kills certain animals within an hour or two. Despite being the most venomous spider in North America, their bite is rarely fatal to humans. Most bites from them are “dry” anyway. Although, deaths have happened mostly from allergic reactions.

Blue Spotted Stingray

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Cardiotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Hours (Rare)

Knowing a Blue Spotted Stingray is not exactly rocket science. You can see their blue spots without any real trouble. They do not hide in the sand like other stingrays. They have venomous spines and a sharp barbed tail they do not mind using.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

While they do not often kill humans with their venom, it can harm us in other ways. Usually, it causes some muscle/ pain or weakness as well as nausea. It takes a few days to get out of your system but if you have one kidney or none at all, it may not filter well and an ER visit should be made. The real danger of a stingray is its barbed tail, as they can kill with it. We lost Steve Irwin this way, after all.

Cane Toad

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Bufotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Days (Rare)

Cane Toads happen to be some crazy venomous animals. Sorry ladies, your Prince is not coming when you kiss one of these. In fact, you’ll likely get an infection. However, Cane Toads pack some horrible Bufotoxin too. Those who eat Cane Toads will often experience severe side effects. This is why many animals leave them alone.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their Bufotoxin is capable of causing some paralysis among humans as well as nausea, fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, and even seizures. That can result in death for humans but it is quite rare. Touching them won’t hurt you unless you have open wounds on your hands, just be sure to wash your hands very well after.

Duck-Billed Platypus

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Nineteen Peptides. Enhanced By Non-Nitrogenous Components
Typical Kill Time: Hours to Days (Animals)

The Platypus is one of the few living mammals that produce venom. Their venom is injected into humans or animals via their spurs on their feet in what is essentially a stinging effect. This is present to push off any possible predators, especially those that can follow them in the water.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Though it won’t kill humans, their venom does cause some horrific pain. Humans affected by it claim that the spot of injection was swollen for a while, often needing prescription painkillers to bring down the pain. This is due to their venom having numerous peptides, enhanced by non-nitrogenous components. In animals, this causes coagulation and a severe lowering of blood pressure.

Coastal Taipan Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Taicatoxin
Typical Kill Time: 30 Minutes to 2.5 Hours

The Coastal Taipan Snake is similar to the Inland Taipan, but the difference between the two would seem pretty obvious. One is more water-friendly and will be found near water areas, usually across Australia and the island of New Guinea. It is incredibly dangerous and is currently listed as the third-most venomous snake on the planet behind its cousin the Inland Taipan and Eastern Brown Snakes. Their average venom yield of 120mg but can get up to 400mg if they feel like it.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their venom is known as Taicatoxin, an incredibly potent neurotoxin that stops blood from clotting and affects your nervous system. This will cause convulsions, paralysis, internal bleeding, and much worse. Death can happen quickly and currently, the untreated death bite death rate is 100% of all bitten, which is why antivenom is highly recommended. Before its antivenom was formed, nearly everyone died from their bite.

Rough-Skinned Newt

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Tetrodotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Hours (Animals)

Rough-Skinned Newts are surprisingly venomous animals that most do not find out about until they feel the effects of the toxin itself. The Newt excretes its venom from its skin as a protective measure. Known as Tetrodotoxin, this venom is from the Neurotoxin family.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The idea is that if a predator goes after it, they will hopefully begin to get sick and go numb or die completely. It seems in regions where this animal is located, predators are wary. As for humans, unless we eat the newt, we won’t experience any life-threatening issues. Only some problems will occur from skin contact unless you have an open wound.

Maricopa Harvester Ants

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Alkaloid, Terpene, Amino Acid, Peptide
Typical Kill Time: 5 Hours (Rare)

The Maricopa Harvester Ant happens to be one of the most venomous insects on the planet. It has been said that one of these ants packs enough venom to kill an ordinary lab mouse, which means it packs quite a punch for an insect. To cause any real harm in humans, you have to be bitten/stung by a lot of them, causing anaphylactic shock.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Apparently, the Alkaloid in their venom signals other ants, resulting in a gang showing up to sting/bite more. Thus, you need to get away quickly once one ant makes contact. It takes around 4 hours for a reaction to occur in humans from one bite/sting. Yet allergic reactions to numerous attacking can come relatively quickly.

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 2 Hours

The Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake is one of the most dangerous snakes on the planet. While every snake bite can be painful, it seems this snake wants to go down with the absolute worst. Of course, the real danger this snake provides is its venom, a highly effective Hemotoxin that can kill humans in mere hours.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

This is extremely dangerous as it kills red blood cells and causes some major tissue damage. The biggest thing to worry about with this toxin is that it can affect breathing and movement of blood to and from the heart. Along with this is the fact that you’ll have trouble clotting, causing humans to bleed out.

Brazilian-Wandering Spider

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within An Hour (Animals)

Some medical professionals feel that the Brazilian-Wandering Spider may hold the cure to erectile dysfunction. Why? Their venom compound known as Tx2-6 has a weird side effect. For men, the venom gives a very painful erection that lasts for several hours. Thus, pharmaceutical companies are trying to use it in a controlled way for a new medication.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

When you’re bitten by one, humans immediately have horrible pain from the bite that will kill other animals. Their venom is a version of a neurotoxin but one that is often not often lethal to humans. It affects blood and its movement throughout the body. This can cause nausea, dizziness, trouble breathing, etc. On top of this will be terrible pain that’ll last in some for several weeks.

Striped Eel Catfish

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 5 Hours (Rare)

Most do not ever consider Catfish when it comes to venomous animals. However, there are several that pack some venom in them that act as self-defense. However, none are more notable for this than the Striped Eel Catfish. These catfish have near-razor sharp dorsal fins and pectoral fins, both possessing venom.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

This is often delivered into the human or sea creature when opened up by the fin. The venom is even strong enough to kill humans, though rare to see. Usually, people are cut open and seek help immediately. Therefore, humans just do not die very often. However, it can still cause infections and severe pain for weeks.

Scolopendra Subspinipes

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Serotonin, Histamine, & Toxin-S
Typical Kill Time: Few Hours To Several Days (if allergic)

The Scolopendra Subspinipes is an incredibly large species of centipede. While it would be appropriate to put all centipedes here, it appears that this is the most venomous of the entire centipede family. They can be found in almost every land area on the planet, including the United States, all across Asia, and Australia.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

However, they are not native to colder environments, such as upper Canada and both Arctic areas. Their venom is enough to kill a person, but the last recorded death involved a 7-year-old child. Like other deaths from this centipede, most feel that an allergic reaction was the main cause. Their venom has a variety of toxins in it such as serotonin, histamine, and toxin-S.

Common Krait

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Powerful Neurotoxins
Typical Kill Time: Within 24 Hours

The Common Krait snake is one of the most dangerous and venomous animals on the planet today. Many people who are bitten by this snake don’t experience much pain from it. This gives people false assurance, assuming they’re perfectly fine. In reality, they’re about to feel the effects of the bite very soon.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The bite sends powerful neurotoxins into the bloodstream that will cause muscle paralysis. If this goes on too long, even in those who survive and get antivenom, some of the paralysis can be permanent. Yet what kills people most from the bite is respiratory failure.

Mexican Beaded Lizard

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 2 Days

The Mexican Beaded Lizard is one of the two most venomous lizards on the planet today. Their venom is a relatively weak hemotoxin, contained in their salivary glands. Thus, in order to be affected by the venom, they often need to bit you first. Saliva will then attach itself to poison you.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Most animals that are bitten by one end up dying from the bite experience, but the venom affects those that might escape their grasp too. Humans typically do not die from their venom, but it certainly can happen. Their Hemotoxin affects a human’s respiratory system, so any death will come from this. Most get medical attention within the same day as being bitten and turn out fine.

Stonefish

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Verrucotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Couple Hours

Stonefish are abnormally deadly creatures. Most do not look like they could hurt humans. However, quite a number of them are venomous and certainly can do some damage. Certain Stonefish rank as the most venomous fish species on the planet. Stonefish don’t really target humans. They use venom mostly for protection, so they only hurt those that come too close.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Whether that is grabbing or stepping on them, they’ll react. Their venom is known as Verrucotoxin and only produced by these types of fish. Acting similar to a Neurotoxin, it can cause paralysis, trouble breathing, etc. It can even kill humans if they do not get help in time.

Coral Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: A Few Hours

Coral Snakes are some of the most dangerous snakes on the planet, and they are often mistaken for other species like the Milk Snake, Pipe Snake, or King Snake. There are easy ways to know the difference between the two (their color and pattern), but you do not want to get close enough to either one to find out. There are at least 16 Coral species still slithering on Earth today. They can be found all over North America, mostly in the Southern United States.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

They are incredibly deadly and have venom nearly equal to the King Cobra. It is among the most potent snake venoms in North America. Coral Snakes are relatively recluse animals, so it is rare to see them attack humans. This is why so few deaths happen as a result. Yet when bitten, you’re hit with a deadly neurotoxin that could kill within hours. There is also a major antivenom issue right now, making a bite from one even riskier to take.

Funnel-Web Spider

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Delta-Atracotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within An Hour

Officially known as the Australian Funnel Web Spider, this little beast ranks as one of the most venomous animals on the planet to humans. What makes it even worse is that their venom, often referred to as δ-atracotoxin, is an ion-channel inhibitor. This is a type of Neurotoxin. Yet while it can kill humans and other primates, it does not affect other mammals.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The venom itself affects the nervous system. Typically, this specific spider bites around 30 to 40 people per year but so far, only around 12 to 14 people have died from it. In fact, the Guinness World Record people have ranked it the most venomous spider on the planet. People can die from their bite as quickly as 15 minutes!

Squalidae (Dogfish Shark)

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Mild Toxin (not well understood)
Typical Kill Time: Death Unlikely Among Humans

The Squalidae, better known to many as the Dogfish Shark, is the only venomous shark in the world today. A smaller shark, they have two smooth but sharp dorsal fins but no anal fin. They have slender bodies as well as a pointed snout. All of which makes them stand out in the shark community over others. Males reach up to 39 inches while females reach up to 49 inches.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

They often run in packs, which is how they got their name. A fisherman once saw them chase down smaller fish in a “dog-like pack.” They are also the most well-traveled shark species, allowing them to be in oceans just about everywhere. One Dogfish Shark was recorded to have traveled 5,000 miles on its own. Their dorsal fins are mildly venomous, but it is rare humans will be hit by one. Like most sharks, they use their jaws and teeth to attack prey.

Dubois Sea Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 15 hours

Described as one of the top three most venomous snakes on the planet, the Dubois Sea Snake is extremely dangerous. Due to being mostly in the water, people tend to run into them in the most surprising periods. If you startle the snake and the snake bites, it makes sense why. Funny enough, many of the bites from them are dry and don’t inject venom.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

They tend to hang out in the coral reef areas, so if you’re careful here, you’ll likely avoid them. Their venom is a neurotoxin. It can cause paralysis, kidney failure, respiratory issues, muscle damage, etc. However, the symptoms seem to begin 4 to 8 hours after being bitten. Therefore, if you get treatment before 10 hours or so, you’ll likely be able to survive.

Indian Red Scorpion

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 24 Hours (Children)

Indian Red Scorpions are pretty venomous. This scorpion is notable due to how many people it tends to attack per year. Obviously, they’re in India as well as Nepal. They tend to be all over the place and thus humans come across them consistently. The most common of these are actually children. These kids either die or have severe effects from the experience.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their venom is a potent neurotoxin, but it’s spiced up with a mix of salts, peptides, and proteins. Not only does this sting hurt extremely bad but the venom travels faster through a child’s body than an adult’s. Thus, side effects come quicker. If they get to a hospital quickly, humans likely won’t have any issues. They’ll likely still have pain at the spot of the sting for a few days, however.

Hawksbill Sea Turtles

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Marine Biotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Hours

One would assume that a turtle, more than any other animal, would not be poisonous. Yet the Hawksbill Sea Turtle happens to be among the most venomous animals on the planet. This turtle happens to be biofluorescent, in that it absorbs light from living organisms. It is the first known reptile to be capable of this.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

They are venomous only on their flesh, mostly from eating other venomous cnidarians. This can include things like coral as well as jellyfish. People do not find out about the venomous nature of this turtle until they attempt to eat it. In 2010, a story came out about how 6 people died and 90 more got seriously ill from eating the Hawksbill. Among those dead were 4 children. Essentially, it poisons through chelonitoxism from the turtle’s marine biotoxin.

King Brown Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin, Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Days

Typically found in Australia, the King Brown Snake is known to be HIGHLY venomous. They can get up to 11-feet long but they’re notable for their appearance. The dorsal scales are two-toned, giving it a patterned appearance. Their overall appearance allows them to hide in the sands of the Outback and strike on unsuspecting prey.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their venom is not as potent as some of the other snakes in Australia. Yet severe side effects can happen. The main thing to worry about is paralysis, along with muscle damage. One will also not be able to clot their blood for a while, which will then be accompanied by extreme pain, swelling, and potentially necrosis. There is an antivenom for it, but if nothing is done one could still live. In fact, the last death from one was recorded in 1969!

Spanish Fly

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Days

Not just a pro-wrestling move, the Spanish Fly is incredibly notable for one reason, it can cause some extreme damage. You should also know the Spanish Fly isn’t a “fly” at all. It’s actually a species of Beetle. The beetle’s venom can, in men, cause involuntary and painful erections. In all bitten, the venom will always cause festering blisters.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Some even get it in their eyes, which causes complete blindness. Just 30 milligrams is enough to kill a full-grown adult. Yet only one gram can cause symptoms in up to 5,000 people! It can cause kidney failure, heart issues, and overall nervous system disorders. If one were to ingest its venom, it’s sure death in a matter of hours.

Portuguese Man O’ War

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Version Of Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within Minutes From Shock, Otherwise Death Unlikely

The Portuguese Man O’ War is one of the most unique animals you’ll ever see. It looks a lot like a jellyfish but they’re not. It’s almost completely transparent, with long tentacles. Each has venomous microscopic nematocysts that deliver painful stings that can kill fish and even humans. It’s actually part of the unique Zooid Family. This is a species that is part of a single colony.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

These multicellular beings typically attach to one another to form one individual being and cannot survive independently from each other. This particular creature stings roughly 10,000 Australians per year. One sting is usually not enough to kill humans but due to some paralysis caused, a human can die from drowning along with anaphylactic shock if they are allergic. They are constantly washing ashore where people can be harmed by them. It is recommended to steer clear as much as possible.

Hooded Pitohui

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Batrochotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 10 to 24 hours

The Hooded Pitohui is an incredibly beautiful bird, but it’s not one you want to touch. On its body, it is covered in venom known as Batrochotoxin. This is a type of neurotoxin. When exposed to this, most people do not feel symptoms right away. It takes time, but usually, nausea comes first then several neurological issues.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

It slowly starts paralysis and eventually will affect the muscles. From here, both the heart and respiratory systems are next to be impacted. While most get help before death takes them to the great beyond, several still suffer from paralysis problems. Therefore, getting help as soon as possible is the best thing one can do.

Russell’s Viper

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin, Neurotoxin, Myotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 10 to 15 Hours

Russell’s Vipers are some of the deadliest snakes on the planet. The reason they are so feared is usually their temperament. They are aggressive animals, often found in very populated areas throughout India. This results in the snake ranking among the top in snakebites per year.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their venom is quite powerful and capable of causing severe kidney failure. On top of this, the venom operates by super-clotting your blood via disseminated intravascular coagulation. This could kill an average human in less than a day, with around 10 to 15 hours being the death window. Even with fast treatment, necrosis is a common side effect of the bite. This on top of pain for up to a month!

Brown Recluse

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Days (Rare)

The Brown Recluse Spider is a very venomous creature that has been known to often kill just about any insect or animal it feels like. Usually, their bites only make humans very sick. The people most at risk are the elderly, very young, or those with bad immune systems.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Most of the time, their bite isn’t very painful. It also takes at least 12 hours before people show symptoms of the venom affecting their body. Their Hemotoxin typically will only affect the bite area the most. The rest of this is venom spread in the blood that will cause nausea and some respiratory issues. Overall, if you get medical help right away once bitten you shouldn’t experience any major issues.

Gila Monster

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Days (Rare)

Gila Monsters are the other most poisonous lizard species on the planet. They were often used in Pioneer days for various reasons, on top of food. However, while they rarely kill humans, Gila Monsters are territorial and will bite them. Most feel you’re more likely to die from an infection due to the bite than their actual venom.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Deaths from the Gila Monster have not been present since at least 1939. Those previously who died usually were young children or those who died from “the treatment” of the Gila Monster bite, funny enough. The venom is a version of a hemotoxin that can make humans pretty sick yet can kill other animals.

Boomslang

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 24 Hours

The Boomslang ranks as one of the most dangerous snakes on the planet often due to where they are located. Mostly found in Africa, they’re usually in trees. While being nearly camouflaged in the green, they’ll launch out at creatures or humans in their personal bubble.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

These venomous animals have a deadly Hemotoxin that can kill adult humans in 24 hours or less. Usually, those who die from the bite are those far from a medical facility. The only major Hospital in Africa near or among where Boomslangs tend to be is in Johannesburg, South Africa. Thus, some do not make it and die a slow and agonizing death.

Comb Stars

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Tetrodotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 24 Hours

You thought Patrick Star was some lovable starfish, didn’t you? Oh no, he’s a cold-blooded killer. We’re going overboard there, but the Comb Star is one of the deadliest animals on the planet. Their venom, known as tetrodotoxin, packs enough power in one gram to kill over 500 lab mice. It’s obviously very deadly to humans as well.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

There is no known cure or antivenom for Tetrodotoxin, so all medical professionals can do is treat the symptoms. It is rare for a comb star to attack a human and there are no known deaths to mankind via Comb Star. However, humans are quite aware of the Tetrodotoxin venom in other animals.

Striated Surgeonfish

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Within 24 Hours

Knowing there is some toxicity to certain venomous animals, one would assume that you’d eat it cooked rather than in sushi form. Yet that is not the case for many, such as those who die from Striated Surgeonfish. Their flesh contains a potent neurotoxin that, if ingested, cause people to get sick.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

However, what is worse is that it has killed humans who have eaten it rather than just affect them similar to food poisoning. Yet the surgeonfish will cause neurological issues such as paralysis and respiratory failure, along with food poison feeling. Fun, right?

Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Several Neurotoxins, 2 Isotoxins
Typical Kill Time: 24 Hours

The Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake may very well be the most dangerous sea snake of them all. It packs several different neurotoxins as well as 2 Isotoxins. An Isotoxin is a venom that hurts animals of the same species. Meaning this snake can kill other sea snakes, especially its own species, with its poison.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Like the Dubois Sea Snake, humans typically do not die from this snake. Whether it is due to dry bites or immediate medical attention being sought after the bite, human death tolls are low. However, they will still cause numerous issues that might be present for a while.

Flamboyant Cuttlefish

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Likely Tetrodotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 24 Hours

The Flamboyant Cuttlefish may not come off as one of the most venomous animals on Earth but it surely is. In spite of never technically attacking humans, it could come in contact with them if eaten. They are not considered to be a highly sought-after sea creature to eat, however. Thus, humans rarely have ever come into problems.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Yet other animals seem to die from their attempt to eat one consistently. Upon being bitten into, the venom released from their muscles kills animals easily. It is believed to be a Tetrodotoxin, a very potent neurotoxin. This will paralyze the animal attacker, and will then essentially suffocate to death.

Asian Giant Hornet

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Cytolytic Peptide, Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 4 to 10 hours

The Asian Giant Hornet is as dangerous as they come, as it possesses a strong venom that can kill humans. It contains a powerful peptide toxin like many wasps or hornets. Yet this is accompanied by a strong Neurotoxin as well. Upon being stung, almost immediately, a person will hemorrhage and deal with necrosis.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The venom will then start to affect a person’s red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Like many Neurotoxins, left untreated, the venom will eventually begin to cause breathing issues and even some kidney failure. Yet most deaths from it tend to happen by anaphylactic shock.

Xibalbanus Tulumensis

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: 32 Venom Proteins & Assumed Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Unknown

Also known as the “Cave Swimmer, the Xibalbanus tulumensis might not look deadly but appearances do not do this species justice. The species is fully hermaphrodite, allowing them to mate amongst each other no matter what. They are part of the crustacean family but they are as dangerous as a venomous snake. In fact, the venom in this species is equal to that of a rattlesnake.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

They will open prey up via their sharp need-like claws and deliver venom into them from its poison gland. People rarely come across them as they are found in caves along the Yucatán Peninsula & Caribbean Sea. Due to where they live, the species is actually completely blind too. Being in dark caves has allowed them to evolve beyond the need for eyesight. Rather, they are able to focus on their other senses. With venom this powerful, we can “see” why.

King Cobra

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Cytotoxin, Neurotoxin, Three-Finger Toxin, Cardiotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 8 to 12 Hours

Funny enough, despite being the King of them, this particular animal is technically not a cobra at all. They have their own species line called the Ophiophagus. Due to being the only member of the family, they’re still called cobras a lot. Obviously, King Cobras are well known for being some of the most venomous animals on the planet.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their bite is very deadly due to possessing so much venom types. Even if you can treat one, you may die from another. Some of these toxins attack faster than others too. In India alone, King Cobras bite people often and are responsible for hundreds of deaths annually there. Worldwide, they’re responsible for thousands.

Lionfish

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 1 Hour to Several Days

If you’ve never seen a Lionfish before today, you’re welcome for the nightmares. They may not seem this way, but Lionfish are one of the most venomous animals on the planet. They use a neurotoxin that affects humans very negatively.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Usually, healthy people do not die from Lionfish venom. If you have a weak immune system, kidney troubles, or lung issues – chances are, you’re going to need a medical professional very soon. The most common way humans die from an issue with Lionfish venom is by anaphylactic shock or respiratory failure. This is why a trip to the ER is recommended heavily regardless.

Poison Dart Frog

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Lipophilic Alkaloid Toxins
Typical Kill Time: Hours To Days (Rare)

Poison Dart Frogs are quite well-known these days but they tend to only be native to South America, mostly the Amazon Rainforest. Of course, humans from tribes in the region have used them for poison darts for centuries. Usually, these darts are reserved for hunting animals but they may be used on humans in strict cases.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

The venom itself in small doses won’t usually kill humans. Yet too much of it will. The Golden Dart Frog alone has enough venom packed in it to kill 10 people. In humans, it uses causes partial paralysis that will go away after a while. Too much of it can cause respiratory complications, anaphylactic shock, and permanent paralysis, however.

Eastern Brown Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin, Hemotoxin, Myotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 5 Minutes To An Hour

The second most venomous snake in the world, responsible for 60% of snakebite deaths in Australia, is the Eastern Brown Snake. They tend to hide in darker areas or in the dirt. That makes them hard to see, allowing them to strike before people know what happened. Their venom tends to cause clotting to stop completely, resulting in a bleed out.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Cardiovascular trouble and cardiac arrest are prime concerns too. This snake’s venom contains Hemotoxin, Myotoxin, and Neurotoxin. All of which are deadly. Depending on the severity of the bite, people can experience symptoms and die 5 to 30 minutes later. Everyone has death possible in 1 hour without treatment.

Cone Snail

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Conotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Few Hours

Cone Snails are severely venomous animals to worry about. Cone Snails look a lot like shells, so shell collectors see them and think nothing of it. Soon, a venomous barb sticks them with their notable Conotoxin. This is a version of Neurotoxin and can only be found within Cone Snails.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

It can put someone into a paralysis point, rendering them unable to move. It attacks both the muscles and nerves, resulting in immobility. This is also accompanied by respiratory issues, including an inability to speak in many. It can kill humans within just a few hours. Even when helped by medical professionals, you may have symptoms that could last days to weeks.

Deathstalker Scorpion

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 10 Hours To 2 Days (Rare)

The Deathstalker Scorpion is said to have the single most painful sting in the world. This is saying a lot, especially with some venomous animals on this list. They typically hang out in deserts, which is likely why they tend to sting people out of nowhere. They’re typically yellow and blend in well.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their stinger will hit you with some neurotoxin, which can ultimately cause some partial paralysis at the site of the sting. This can include necrosis if you wait too long to be checked. Death is very rare in humans, as it takes a while for the venom to really move into the bad stage. Yet infections are very common, with pain lasting in some for weeks to months.

Inland Taipan Snake

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 5 To 45 Minutes

It is widely well-known that the Inland Taipan Snake is one of the most venomous animals on Earth. On top of that, it’s also the most venomous snake known to mankind too. Their venom is not much better than others, it’s just incredibly potent. This is why their kill time period is the lowest among all other snakes.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their specialized neurotoxin will cause muscle and nerve damage, moving fast through the blood. It goes through the heart and moves through the rest of the body quickly, including the brain. Death time is 45 minutes AT BEST. However, many die in 5 to 30 minutes. It truly depends on the size, age, and health of the person.

Blue-Ringed Octopus

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Tetrodotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Less Than 10 Hours

A Blue-Ringed Octopus looks absolutely beautiful. However, as one of the most venomous animals in the world, they should be always beloved from afar. They have a very potent venom known as Tetrodotoxin. It seems the Octopus packs enough to kill pretty much anything that gets close.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

However, this Octopus rarely kills humans. The reason is their typical location, the deep deep sea. Anytime a human ventures down enough to see one, they are usually in a specialized deep-sea submarine or equipment. As a result, death by Blue-Ringed Octopus isn’t common. Their deadly toxin could kill humans in mere hours though.

Lonomia

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: Less Than 15 Hours

Known as the “Assassin Caterpillar,” the Lonomia is incredibly deadly. They tend to hide out in full greenery. Since they’re mostly located near the Amazon, this is pretty much everywhere. For centuries, people never seemed to have an issue with them. All of a sudden, over 200 people died from run-ins with one of these venomous animals in one year. Then hundreds more since!

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Most of these people were locals to the area or tribal people. Lonomias are easy to step or sit on, as well as grab onto accidentally. One barb can affect you, but since people hit numerous at once, their venom hits hard. A deadly Hemotoxin, the venom attacks the human body viciously. Death is possible in less than 15 hours without treatment.

Box Jellyfish

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Neurotoxin (Jellyfish Venom)
Typical Kill Time: Few Minutes To Few Hours

Box Jellyfish account for more than 50 human deaths annually. However, due to knowledge of them, they more often injure than kill. As of now, box jellyfish are responsible for more serious injuries annually than sharks, sea snakes, and stingrays combined! This is mostly due to their venomous tentacles, making them one of the most venomous animals on the planet.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Their “Jellyfish Venom” is actually a mix of some powerful and potent neurotoxins. It causes heart problems, breathing issues, necrosis, severe pain, paralysis, etc. Depending on the number of stings and severity, people can die in a few minutes to a few hours.

Saw-Scaled Viper

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Cytotoxin, Cardiotoxin, Hemotoxin, and Neurotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 10 Minutes To 2 Hours

The Saw-Scaled Viper is considered to be the most dangerous snake on the planet. Yet it’s not the most venomous! Their claim to fame, however, is being responsible for more bites and annual deaths than any other snake. This is mostly due to their aggressive nature. They also find themselves in weird areas among humans.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

People just happen across them and they strike. Their venom is a mix of Cytotoxins, Cardiotoxins, Hemotoxins, and Neurotoxins. Due to so many different poisons, people die in numerous ways. The typical time of death differs from person to person, but few make it past 2 hours without antivenom.

Honey Bees

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Venom: Cytotoxin, Hemotoxin
Typical Kill Time: 10 Minutes To 72 Hours

It may be weird to think that Honey Bees are one of the most venomous animals on the planet, they actually are. Their venom accounts for more deaths per year than any other animal on this list. Usually, one sting will mostly come with some pain and maybe a fever, if that. Numerous stings, however, can kill just about any human.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

More than anything else, their Apitoxin venom kills via anaphylactic shock. Several people are allergic to them, so the shock issue makes sense. Yet anyone can go into this type of shock if stung enough. Usually, 1,000 bee stings at once are the amount a healthy adult can take. Over 60 deaths per year happen from these killers too.