Deadliest Creature in Montana? It’s Not What You Think

When you think about the deadliest animals to humans, you probably picture the usual suspects—venomous snakes, lions, sharks, crocodiles, maybe even hippos. We've had those threats drilled into us since childhood, thanks to wildlife shows and horror movies. But the most dangerous creature on the planet? It's not a giant beast—it's a tiny little thing, barely bigger than your pinky fingernail.

So, what animal kills the most people each year?

It's none other than the mosquito. Yep—those annoying little bloodsuckers are responsible for an estimated 1 million deaths annually, primarily due to diseases like malaria. They're found on every continent except Antarctica, which honestly sounds more appealing the more you hear about this.

There are over 3,200 species of mosquitoes buzzing around the globe and 51 species in Montana. Here in Montana, we don't deal with malaria much (thankfully), but West Nile Virus is something we've seen now and then. And even without the diseases, let's be honest—these things are relentless.

I bring this up because a new study recently dropped, and it looked at Google search trends to figure out which states are complaining the most about mosquitoes. People across the U.S. are searching for everything from "best mosquito repellents" to "how to keep mosquitoes away naturally" and the ever-relatable: "why are there so many mosquitoes?!"

According to the data, Montana ranked #38—but clearly, they didn't pull from my search history. Because let me tell you, the mosquitoes have been out of control this year. Every riverbank I've fished has clouds of them launching out of the grass like they've been waiting for me. And don't even get me started on the biting flies—absolute savages.

The top three states most bothered by mosquitoes based on Google searches were:

1. Hawaii
2. South Carolina
3. Delaware

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Honestly, I don't know if I believe Montana deserves to be that far down the list. Maybe we're just tougher and complain less... or maybe we've all accepted bug bites as part of outdoor life. Either way, what's your experience been this year? Are the skeeters out for blood—or is it just me? Let us know HERE!