Utah’s Most Dangerous Animals You Need To Watch Out For

The Most Dangerous Wildlife in Utah 

You may think black bears and cougars are the animals you should watch for when hiking or camping in the backcountry of Utah, but these big predators aren’t the most dangerous. Think much smaller and hiding in wildflowers. 

Bees and hornets are the cause of more deaths in the appropriately named beehive state. However, don’t get too worried. There is an average of 28 deaths nationally due to people getting stung. 

Big Scary Predators 

Having said that, there are up to 3,000 black bears in Utah and 1,500 cougars. You don’t want to run into these animals, especially if it is a momma with her young. Deaths from these big predators are rare and that is a good thing. 

The other surprisingly dangerous animal is the moose. There are 2,500 to 3,000 of these big antlered animals and they should be left alone. During mating season, the males can get really aggressive. 

Desert Crawlers Can Be Even Scarier 

Rattlesnakes and scorpions can be just as intimidating when you run across them camping. I know a guy who had a couple scorpions join him in his sleeping bag at Lake Powell and to this day he only stays in motels. 

Read More: Four Animals you can Hunt Year Round in Utah

There you go. The dangerous animals to avoid in our state. I didn’t mention mosquitos that cause all sorts of problems like West Nile. They are hard to avoid, but you can wear lots of spray. So, good luck and get out there and enjoy the great outdoors.