Plants And Animals That We Shouldn’t Ever Touch

Sometimes, it really is best to keep your hands to yourself — even when faced with eye-catching flora and fauna. Sure, you can admire their appearance, but never try to touch them: it could end in disaster. And that’s especially true with these animals and plants. You could become prey in a manner of seconds around these creatures. If you ever spot them, please stand back… way back!

74. Poison ivy

Want to know the quickest way to ruin a nice stroll in the woods? Accidentally walking into a bunch of poison ivy. It sucks! This nasty plant houses a compound called urushiol, which irritates your skin soon after brushing against it. The soreness is often referred to as “contact dermatitis,” and it can stick around for over three weeks. Oh, and the resin clings to your clothes, too.

73. Tussock moth caterpillars

While caterpillars can be destructive little critters in the yard, the tussock moth caterpillar is ominous for a slightly different reason. The website NCHE.com explains that they boast troublesome hairs which are capable of irritating your skin if you touch them. These bugs are scattered across America’s East Coast, so local residents need to watch themselves.

72. Indian red scorpions

While some people like to call them pets, we wouldn’t advise you to get too close to an Indian red scorpion. These arachnids carry a very dangerous poison in their stings. According to the website ThoughtCo.com, the toxins can cause perspiration, a loss of breath, sickness, and an erratic heartbeat. So, don’t touch them!

71. Oleander plants

Thanks to their vibrant pink petals, you might think oleander plants are safe to touch. But that’s not the case…at all. As the website Ranker reported, these flowers’ sap will leave you with a rash should you come into contact with it. And whatever you do, don’t get them near your mouth, either. They’re very poisonous.