Do you want to learn about the deadliest and scariest animals in France?
Like much of Europe, wildlife in France is not notorious for being deadly and scary. Majority of animals are harmless.
Still, there are a few species that should not be underestimated and locals and tourists alike should remain cautious of the potential dangers they pose.
In this article, we will explore some of the deadliest and scariest animals in France and provide you with tips on how to steer clear of them and what to do when faced with them.
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10 Deadliest And Scariest Animals In France
Related Read: Interesting Animals That Are Native To France
1. Black Widow
Previously limited to the southern regions of mainland France and Corsica, the Mediterranean or European black widow has been increasingly observed inhabiting areas farther north.
Bites from black widow spiders can result in a condition known as latrodectism, characterized by various symptoms such as muscle spasms, stiffness, pain, vomiting, high blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat.
Black widows are typically shy and prefer to be uninterrupted. If you see one, just leave it alone. Killing them is unnecessary, as they will not harm anyone if simply left alone.
2. Wild Boar / Warthog
Warthogs in France are primarily active at night, making an encounter during the day a bit unlikely. And if it happens, these wild boars typically choose flight over fight – unless you get between a mother and her young or agitate an aggressive male.
When cornered, the warthog will use its trusty tusks. In unfortunate situations like this, you should grab whatever you can find and fight back.
On a lighter note, boar attacks are often pretty quick. Once it’s over, make sure to seek immediate medical attention.
3. Brown Bear
To protect brown bears, the maintenance of a viable bear population is mandated by a 1992 European Union directive.
This means France is home to a fair number of these cuddly-looking but scary animals. However, these animals are still classified as endangered so they are very well-protected.
Hikers and campers face a potential threat from brown bears inhabiting the country’s mountainous regions. If you see one, stay calm and leave immediately. If that’s not possible, wait until the bear does.
Avoid running from the bear; doing so can trigger its predatory instincts. Female bear with her cubs should be avoided at all costs!
4. Wolf
Majority of wolves in France live primarily in the southern Alps. However, they can also be observed in the Prealps, Massif Central, Pyrenees, and remote areas of Provence.
When you go into the wilds, it helps to bring a pepper spray. This will be useful when you encounter a wolf or a pack of them.
Akin to the bear, running from wolves will trigger their hunting instincts, so it’s best to stay put if a wolf tries to approach you.
Try to make yourself seem as big as you can by stretching out your arms and puffing out your chest. You can also shout at it as sometimes a loud and confident voice can scare wolves off.
If all else fails, use pepper spray or any other weapon to protect yourself.
5. Asp Viper
Asp vipers can be found in various locations in France, although their presence has significantly diminished in intensive arable areas. These vipers are small snakes but highly venomous.
An asp viper’s bite is not only agonizing but also deadly if left untreated. Its venom has the potential to quickly deteriorate blood vessels, resulting in vision-related problems.
When faced with an asp, do not approach it. Instead, step back slowly and wait for the snake to retreat. Asp vipers are generally non-aggressive and are likely to flee if left undisturbed.
It is worth noting that they show a warning signal by coiling their tail into a circular shape, raising the front part of their body, and emitting a loud hiss before they attack.
6. Cow
When it comes to dangerous animals in France, cows might not be the first thing that pops into our minds, but these bad boys are way more dangerous than you’d think.
There are around 19 million cows in France and it’s crucial that you know how to be safe around them.
Cows are fast runners, capable of reaching speeds of nearly 40 kph despite their weight of between 600 kg and 900 kg. While they are normally gentle creatures, cows display remarkable protective instincts toward their young.
Cows chasing people have become quite prevalent. When faced with aggressive cows, quietly and swiftly navigate around them. Refrain from any sudden actions and avoid direct eye contact.
7. Asian Hornet
Asian hornets have made France their home since 2004. They arrived in Bordeaux from Asia, concealed in a container of pottery.
Since then, Asian hornets have multiplied and proliferated, extending their presence throughout the entirety of the country – even crossing international boundaries.
Asian hornets become aggressive when disturbed. When threatened, they will sting once or multiple times, which can cause severe reactions in people regardless of their allergy status.
If you come across an Asian hornet or their nest, calmly and promptly leave. In the event of a sting, wash the affected area and apply ice ASAP. If you have allergies or experience multiple stings, head to the ER quickly.
8. Weever Fish
Two species of weever fish can be found along the French coastline, buried in the sand or mud. They exhibit aggressive behavior and may unexpectedly strike scuba divers.
Even dead weever fish can inflict severe wounds due to their spines that contain venomous neurotoxins, which can be deadly.
Wearing shoes designed for beach activities and diving is an excellent method to prevent weever fish stings. They effectively act as a barrier against the fish’s spines and minimize the chances of them coming into contact with your feet.
The weever fish toxin is protein-based and in order to reduce the pain when stung by one, the protein structure should be altered through a process known as protein denaturation or cooking. Put the affected area in hot water for 10-15 minutes and replace it as it cools down.
9. Tiger Mosquito
The tiger mosquito is a highly adaptable species. Native to Asia, it first made its appearance in France via Menton on the French Riviera back in 2004 and has since been steadily advancing northward.
As of 2023, the tiger mosquito has been officially recognized as established and active in 71 departments across metropolitan France.
This species can transmit dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses.
To keep them off, wear light-colored and long clothing such as long sleeves and long pants, and apply mosquito repellent that contains ingredients like oil of lemon eucalyptus, DEET, or picaridin.
10. Pine Processionary Moth
The range of pine processionary moths has expanded beyond the southern half of France due to the increasing use of pine trees for commercial and aesthetic purposes, as well as the ongoing climate changes.
As a result, these moths have now reached areas north of the Loire River.
Pine processionary moth sting can cause boils, hives, and small red bumps.
If the hairs manage to penetrate the eyes, it can result in inflammation of the outermost layer of the eye and can cause redness, itching, and discomfort.
If you suspect a pine processionary moth sting, seek medical advice for appropriate treatment and management of symptoms.
Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.