Dangerous Animals Australia

Danger posed by animals

Sharks:

The risk of being attacked by a shark in Australian waters can be said to be equal to that in other countries which have extensive coastlines.

Also the risk of scuba divers being attacked by tropical sharks in the northern waters is low. There are not many great white sharks in the temperate waters in the south and this minimizes the probability of being attacked by sharks. For more detailed information on the local risk consult a surf life saving group.


Crocodiles:

In the tropical Australia found in the northern part of the country the risk of being attacked by crocodiles is real. The attacks though are predictable and can to a large extent be prevented from happening. Get information about the risk in a particular area from the police and the tourist agencies before engaging in sea or river swimming.


Snakes:

Australian snakes can be said to be dangerous in reference to the potential of their venom having fatal consequences. Even so the risk posed to travellers and the locals as well is quite minimal. Usually the snakes are timid and tend to move away when disturbed. They possess small fangs and this make it easier to prevent being bitten on the legs where around 80%of bites happen by putting on protective clothing for example gaiters, around the ankles. The marks left by the bite are very small and may even go unnoticed.

In a case where a bite is either suspected or confirmed, prevent the spreading of venom by doing the following:

1. Apply pressure onto the wound
2. Immobilize the area using a splint
3. Wrap the entire limb firmly using an elastic bandage
4. Get medical attention urgently.

Care should be taken not to wrap the limb so tightly cutting off circulation from the limb. These first aid measures are simple and easy to follow and they should be learnt earlier as they can save lives.

Spiders

Some spiders found in Australia are poisonous.

Sydney web spider: A bite from this spider causes sever pain on the bite location. Other symptoms include sweating, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The area bitten should be immobilized and pressure applied. The victim should be rushed to a hospital where an antivenin will be administered.

Red back spiders: They are spread through out the country. A bite will cause pain at the site and increases in intensity. Profuse sweating follows as well as muscular weakness and nausea. For first aid, ice packs are applied then the patient rushed to the hospital.
 
White tailed spider: These cause bites that develop into an ulcer which heals very slowly. If bitten the wound should be cleaned thoroughly then medical assistance sought.