- Spanish Fly
The name of the Spanish Fly is misleading, being that the insect is actually a bright green beetle that produces cantharidin.
Leaving an odor everywhere it goes from the cantharidin, it is also yucky to taste. When it gets in the eyes and on the skin of predators it produces a burning sensation.
Not only the skin of the beetle keeps this toxin on guard against predators, but the eggs are coated with it as well.
Scientists have actually discovered a way to bottle this toxin, and it is lethal to humans with only a couple drops put into a liquid.
Learning about the environment and all the creatures in it is exciting and educational for the whole family, but being aware of the dangers that lurk within nature is a smart way to do it safely.
Try to identify insects and animals you come into contact with so you know what species are in your area, and which ones to be particularly careful with.
Please let us know in the comments section if you have come into contact with an animal that you didn’t know was poisonous.