Here are the top ten scariest maneaters in the world:
*Note: While some of these animals are very likely to eat humans, others are more likely to do so for other reasons such as self-defense, perceived danger or territory encroachment.
Number 10: Alligators
Alligators are not generally out there chasing humans around, but they certainly have been known to attack when the situation warrants. Growing up to 15 feet, alligators have eaten human beings in the past and will do so in the future.
Number 9: Wolves/Coyotes
Wolves and coyotes are famous for the old western movies and their dangerous attitudes. The truth is, getting eaten by wolves or coyotes is exceedingly rare. They simply don't view us as a food source in most cases. Still, it can and does happen and because they run in packs, it is particularly spooky.
Number 8: Anacondas
Anacondas and large pythons have long been rumored to eat people in remote areas of the world. While the rumors are rampant, I have yet to see proof of an adult being consumed by a large snake. Plenty of people are killed by them, and kids as well, but generally adults are not on the menu. Until further proof exists, this is just an unfounded fear that only really applies to kids and the very small.
Number 7: Bears
Bears have also been known to eat people. Timothy Treadwell is an example of what can happen when people get too close to bears. He spent a large amount of time with Grizzly Bears in Alaska. One evening, he was attacked outside his tent and eaten alive, along with his girlfriend. Bears are dangerous and should be left alone.
Number 6: Leopards
Leopards are not the first big cats that generally come to mind as maneaters, but they have been known to do just that. Powerful and sneaky, a leopard can easily overcome even the strongest adults. It does not happen often, but it is a sobering thought indeed.
Number 5: Komodo Dragons
Komodo dragons are the closest thing we have to dragons in real life. This massive lizard has toxic spit that can kill a man in no time. These lizards have been known to kill humans and eat them as well.
Number 4: Crocodiles
Both the saltwater crocodiles and the Nile crocodiles are capable and dangerous hunters. What makes them particularly dangerous is that they actually view humans and any other large mammals as a food source. With their immense size and power, you are pretty much toast if they get you in their jaws.
Number 3: Tigers
Tigers are the largest of the big cats and they blend in perfectly with their surroundings. If you are attacked by a tiger, it is a decent bet you will not see them coming. If that is not spooky, I don't know what is.
Number 2: Lions
Lions are known for being incredibly brave and are much more likely to attack you head on than a tiger. Despite the tiger being larger, the lions are much more bold. Lions kill people and consume them. Just knowing that fact is enough to make you shiver with fear when moving around in their territories.
Number 1: Sharks
Sharks are certainly dangerous but they don't generally consider humans to be food. Still, they do sometimes kill and eat us. The big three are the great white shark, the tiger shark and the bull shark. Each of these sharks are extremely dangerous and capable maneaters, well deserving of the number one spot on our top ten list of the same.
