Which animals kill the most human beings every year?

There are numerous interesting animals in the animal kingdom that intrigue human beings with their exceptional features and unexpected traits. However, it's important to recognise that not all animals are kind, some pose serious threats to human beings. While many animals attack out of defense or territorial instincts, others are carriers of deadly diseases. The most dangerous animals to humans can be lethal to them in varied ways. From the stealthy predation of lions to the tiny, yet deadly, mosquitoes, animals are a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the possible risks within it. Here are 10 such animals that can be harmful to human beings according to Science Forum


Lions are majestic predators to animals, but they can also be deadly for human beings. They attack humans when threatened or if their natural prey is scarce. Lions are responsible for approximately 200 deaths annually. Lions, with their sharp claws and bone-cracking bites, attack at night, often in groups. They charge to protect their young or during courtship, making them fearsome and deadly predators.


Despite their seemingly quiet and secluded appearance, hippos are highly aggressive and territorial. They are responsible for around 500 deaths per year. Hippos can run at surprising speeds on land and are known to overturn boats, attacking humans who venture too close to their territory.

Elephants, the gentle giants of the animal kingdom, can become dangerous when provoked. Each year, elephants cause approximately 600 human fatalities, mostly due to trampling or charging. Due to their immense size, can kill humans by trampling, weighing up to eight tonnes. They can also use their trunks to throw humans and their tusks to gore. Their sheer force and strength make them one of the most dangerous animals to humans.

Crocodiles are one of the most dangerous reptiles, responsible for around 1,000 deaths annually. These stealthy predators lurk in water bodies, waiting to ambush their prey. Their powerful jaws and ability to strike with lightning speed make them a significant threat to humans who venture near their habitats.


Scorpions are venomous arachnids that can deliver deadly stings. Each year, scorpions are responsible for approximately 3,300 human deaths. While not all scorpion species are lethal, those found in regions like North Africa, the Middle East, and South America possess venom potent enough to kill humans.

Assassin bugs, also known as kissing bugs, are carriers of Chagas disease, which is responsible for around 10,000 deaths annually. These bugs transmit the disease through their bites, leading to severe health complications if left untreated. Their presence in Latin America poses a potent health risk.

While often considered man's best friend, dogs can also be deadly. Rabies-infected dogs are responsible for approximately 59,000 human deaths each year. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is fatal if not treated properly . Vaccination and proper care can prevent these tragedies.

Snakes are among the most feared animals due to their venomous bites. Each year, snakes cause around 138,000 human fatalities. Venomous species like cobras, vipers, and black mambas deliver potent toxins that can cause paralysis, organ failure, and death if not treated quickly.

Tragically, humans themselves are one of the most dangerous animals to other humans. Each year, approximately 400,000 people die due to homicide. Violence and conflict contribute to this high number, highlighting the dark side of human nature and the need for peace and understanding. According to ourworldindata, “Globally, 0.7 percent deaths in 2019 were the result of homicide.” In Latin America, homicide rates are higher, with “more than 7 percent of deaths in El Salvador.”


Mosquitoes are the deadliest animals to humans, causing around 725,000 deaths annually. These tiny insects are carriers of diseases like malaria, dengue, and Zika virus. Their ability to spread deadly pathogens makes them a global health threat, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.