Although insects in the wild are fascinating to watch and learn about, some of them pose hazards to our health because of their natural abilities and defense mechanisms. For example, there are poisonous bugs and venomous insects that you’ll want to steer clear of when you encounter them. To help you understand these creatures better and how they can affect you, here’s the difference between venomous and poisonous.
What Does Venomous Mean?
A venomous insect injects another animal or human with venom. This is typically done through a bite that releases venom through the mouth and into the victim. It takes a variable amount of venom to kill prey depending on the insect. Venom is important to these insects’ survival because it is used as a defense against predators. This includes humans, as well. If you are bitten by a venomous insect, you could suffer from pain, low blood pressure, hemorrhaging, and even death.
Examples of Venomous Insects
There are venomous insects that exist and also other larger animals that are venomous too. In general, spiders, scorpions, bees, wasps, and ants are considered to be venomous because of how they inject a toxin to transmit the substance.
Here are some examples of creatures that can directly inject you with a toxin:
- Brown recluse
- Black widow spider
- Fat-tailed scorpion
- Funnel-web spider
H2: What Does Poisonous Mean?
Poisonous differs from venomous because of the method of toxin delivery. While venoms are injected, you can be affected by poisonous bugs by simply touching them. Poisons from insects can be transmitted though skin contact or even by accidently eating them or inhaling poisonous fumes. Poisons can be passively deployed without you even realizing it. If you come into contact with this type of poison, you could suffer from pain, skin irritation, and vomiting.
Examples of Poisonous Insects
Some creatures can be both venomous and poisonous at the same time, such as the Asian tiger snake, which can transmit a toxin through its bite and that also maintains poison on its skin. Some caterpillars, moths, and butterflies are considered to be poisonous because their bodies emit toxic chemicals that are dangerous if eaten or touched.
Here are some examples of creatures that are poisonous:
- Cane toad
- Poison dart frog
- Rough-skinned newt
- Blister beetles
- Japanese Oriental wasp
Professional Help with Any Insects
Regardless of whether an insect is poisonous, venomous, or both, you probably don’t want to be anywhere near it! If you have discovered an insect infestation in your home or on your property, Precise Termite & Pest Control can help. We’ve been in the business of pest control for over three decades and have dealt with every kind of bug that you’ll find here in Northern New Jersey.
Our services include the safe and effective removal of beetles, wasps, bees, mosquitos, and many other kinds of insects that have the potential to put you in harm’s way. Don’t let yourself be a victim of poisonous or venomous insects. Contact us at the first sign of a pest problem or for a free inspection to take a preventative approach.
To learn more, call us at 866-971-2847 or fill out our online form.