Tennessee’s diverse landscapes support a rich variety of wildlife. Understanding dangerous species is important for safety, allowing residents and visitors to appreciate nature while minimizing risks.
Venomous Wildlife of Tennessee
Snakes
Copperheads are common across the state, identified by their dark brown hourglass-shaped crossbands and copper-colored head. Bites can cause pain and require medical attention.
Cottonmouths, or water moccasins, are primarily found in western Tennessee and are the state’s only aquatic venomous snake. When threatened, they may open their mouths to reveal a stark white interior.
Timber rattlesnakes are among Tennessee’s largest venomous snakes, often reaching three to five feet. They have a heavy body, triangular head, and black chevron-shaped crossbands, ending in a characteristic rattle.
Pygmy rattlesnakes are the state’s smallest venomous snakes, measuring one to one and a half feet. Found along the western Highland Rim, their gray or tan bodies feature dark blotches and a tiny rattle. Their venom can cause localized pain and tissue damage.
Spiders
Two venomous spider species are found in Tennessee.
Black widow spiders are glossy black with a red hourglass marking on their abdomen. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas like sheds, basements, or woodpiles. Their neurotoxic venom can cause intense pain and muscle cramps.
Brown recluse spiders are light to medium brown, identifiable by a violin-shaped marking on their back. They hide in secluded, dry spaces. Their venom can lead to necrotic skin damage.
Potentially Aggressive Mammals and Other Wildlife
Tennessee’s larger mammals generally avoid human contact, but can become aggressive.
Mammals
Black bears are found predominantly in eastern Tennessee, especially near the Great Smoky Mountains. While typically shy, they can become hazardous if threatened, protecting cubs, or attracted to human food. They can run up to 35 miles per hour.
Coyotes and wild hogs are present across the state. Coyotes generally pose little threat to humans but may become aggressive toward pets or livestock if they perceive them as a threat. Wild hogs can be unpredictable and may charge if cornered or protecting young.
Rabies Carriers
Animals carrying rabies are a concern. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bats are common rabies virus carriers. Avoid any wildlife exhibiting unusual behavior, such as disorientation, unprovoked aggression, or an unnatural lack of fear towards humans. Report such animals to local authorities.
Other Wildlife
Snapping turtles, large freshwater reptiles, can deliver a powerful bite if handled or provoked. Found in aquatic environments, they should be observed from a distance.
Disease-Carrying Pests
Smaller organisms can transmit diseases, posing a health risk.
Ticks
Ticks are prevalent throughout Tennessee, with several species carrying various illnesses. The black-legged tick can transmit Lyme disease. The lone star tick can transmit ehrlichiosis, tularemia, Heartland virus, and Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI).
The American dog tick is a vector for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, the most common tick-transmitted disease in the state. Ticks inhabit grassy, brushy, or wooded areas and are most active during warmer months. Check for ticks after outdoor activities.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes can transmit diseases in Tennessee. Common illnesses include West Nile virus, La Crosse virus, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus. West Nile virus is the most frequently reported. While many infected individuals show no symptoms, some may develop a fever, body aches, or a rash. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds and then transmit the virus to humans through bites.
Safety and Encounter Protocols
Caution and preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of dangerous wildlife encounters in Tennessee.
Prevention
When outdoors, stay on marked trails and avoid dense vegetation to minimize unexpected interactions. Store food properly in sealed containers or locked vehicles, especially when camping, to prevent animals from associating human presence with food.
Use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin and wear long sleeves and pants to deter pests like ticks and mosquitoes. Regularly check your body for ticks after spending time outdoors. Removing attached ticks promptly can reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Encountering Wildlife
If you encounter a potentially dangerous animal, maintain a calm demeanor. For snakes, observe them from a distance and allow them to move away; never attempt to handle or provoke them. If a snake does not move, find an alternative route. When encountering a black bear, avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, appear as large as possible, make noise, and slowly back away.
After an Encounter
If a bite or sting from a venomous animal occurs, or an aggressive encounter results in injury, seek immediate medical attention. If safe, try to remember the animal’s appearance for identification. For potential exposure to diseases from ticks or mosquitoes, consult a healthcare provider.