Animal-related Deaths By State, Where Does Utah Rank?

Despite Utah's reputation for rugged mountains, remote deserts and abundant wildlife, a new national study suggests the Beehive State is actually one of the safer places in the country when it comes to fatal encounters with animals.

The study by outdoor recreation website Outforia analyzed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data covering animal-related deaths from 1999 through 2024. It found Utah ranks 38th nationally in total animal-related fatalities, with a population-adjusted rate of 5.2 deaths per 10 million residents, well below many western and southern states.

Utah Ranks Low, But Surrounding States Not So Much

Some of Utah's neighbors tell a different story. Idaho ranks among the five states with the highest rates of fatal animal encounters, while Montana tops the nation. Wyoming and Arizona also rank higher than Utah, suggesting that residents and visitors in much of the Intermountain West face a greater risk than those recreating in the Beehive State.

The study also dispels a common misconception that bears and mountain lions account for most deadly wildlife encounters. Instead, many fatalities nationwide involve more ordinary animals, including dogs, livestock and venomous insects such as bees and wasps. Snake bites and other wildlife encounters also contribute to the totals, but attacks by large predators remain relatively uncommon.

Even so, Utah's growing popularity as an outdoor recreation destination means hikers, campers and hunters should continue to exercise caution. Giving wildlife plenty of space, properly storing food while camping, watching for rattlesnakes on trails, and keeping a safe distance from both wild animals and livestock can significantly reduce the risk of dangerous encounters.

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While Utah's black bears, mountain lions and rattlesnakes often capture the public's attention, the study suggests residents have less reason to worry than many of their neighbors. For a state known for world-class hiking, camping and hunting opportunities, Utah appears to offer plenty of adventure without ranking among the nation's hotspots for fatal animal encounters.