The 9 Most Fearsome Animals of Our Time

Shark

Though they're top of the food chain and have great prey detection skills, humans aren't their favorite meal. 

Wolf 

In mythology and fairy stories, wolves are vilified more than they are dangerous. Wolves fear people for good reason. 

Jellyfish 

Most species are harmless to people, but some, like the box jellyfish, can hurt and kill.

Tiger 

Strength, agility, and keen claws and teeth distinguish them. Tiger-human confrontations can be fatal when these big cats feel scared, hungry, or cornered.

Bee 

Bee venom can overwhelm the immune system and cause serious health problems after multiple stings.

Elephant 

Elephants, the world's largest terrestrial creatures, kill 100 people annually in confrontations.

Lion

Human communities may attract lions with food, animals, or rubbish. In places with little prey or where lions like livestock, they may target humans.

Hippopotamus 

Despite their apparent docility, these large herbivores are territorial and fiercely protective, especially in water. 

Crocodile 

As aquatic predators, crocodiles are stealthy and powerful. In areas with shared waters, crocs kill more humans than expected.