Hundreds of rivers spread across India, which not only hold historical and cultural significance but also continue to sustain population and environments. However all that there is in these waters is not all good. From the subtle reflections that lies in the depths of the river to the large giants along the sides of the water ways several threats lurk in these rivers. Here is a list of 11 most dangerous dwellers in Indian rivers .Let us take a look at these creatures.
1. The Indian Cobra
Although not aquatic, the Indian Cobra may be spotted in frequentation of riverside of the country. This snake has a hooded display and carries venomous fangs that can put the fear of the lord in anyone. It may cause severe diseases or death in case of consuming even one bite if left untreated. This roughly translated to: Suppose, one is stroll around the riverbank and next thing he knows, there is a snake stand before him and this snake is known to be antagonistic. That’s no simple stroll!
2. The Gharial
The gharial is one of the more distinctive of the crocodilians and it is instantly recognizable by its long, thin snout. He is a fish eating crocodile that can measure up to 20 ft in length and has some very sharp teeth. Therefore, while they do not actively attack human beings, one can easily provoke them into an attack. Imagine yourself swimming and then voila! You’re opposite a living flesh and blood dinosaur!
3. The Bengal Tiger
Yes, you read that right! The Bengal Tiger has preference for habitats that are nearby water sources and often proximity to rivers particularly in India the Sundarbans. Both of them are large and muscular and at the same time, fast and unpredictable marine hunters. If you thought, there is beauty along the river and all you need to do is stroll along to get a glimpse of it, oh no. Tiger is an aggressive animal, which hunts for its prey and protect their territory as well.
4. The Saltwater Crocodile
Sorry for the Andaman Islands where saltwater crocodile or largest living reptile can be also observed. Being known to hunt big animals such as humans poses a very strong creature to deal with. Just being close to these waters increases your chances of meeting one especially when in their breeding grounds. Well it is like walking straight in to a horror film and wouldn’t expect any harm can rather be around the corner.
5. The Great Horned Owl
As a rule owls are nocturnal however Great Horned Owls may be observed around rivers in the evening. This fine killer has claws and can drop noiselessly on procured game from a perch. Alone at a riverbank during the evening? Better be careful: this bird may be lurking nearby.
6. The Freshwater Stingray
Well, who could think that stingrays are living in Indian rivers?:) As flat as they are and armed with barbs along their backs, they use their tails to produce a sting. Although these species are well adapted to lurking at the river bottom’s sands, stepping on a fish would be a painful experience. You need to think of it like barefoot on a beach only to step on a shard of glass.
7. The Piranha
Common in South America, some of the other species of piranhas have been reported to live in rivers of India. These small fish have a formidable bite as well as strong teeth. If they hear or see any incidents had occurred and there is blood in the waters, then their reflexes come alive. It is strange that it appears they have turned into a cluster of grinning dentition. Coming face to face with these fish would make swimming an hours panic.
8. The Bull Shark
A species of shark that is found in both saline and non saline water systems and thus envisaged to be a risk to Indian water systems. The bull sharks’ body structure is stocky and they are more likely to strike humans than other species of sharks. Picture this: Sub- Sometimes you just tread in water calmly then you look up and find there is a highly charged predator approaching. That is a frightful idea!
9. The Monitor Lizard
These reptiles are often sighted to be basking on the river sides of India. Though they are not territorial animals and do not attack, their bites are also venomous and if not treated, it can cause a severe infection. Encountering one while wandering along the riverside seems to be forgivable from a first glance, but do not be fooled by their appearance.
10. The Poison Dart Frog
This small, bright green to yellow colored frog commonly spotted near rivers is not as cuddly as it looks. These frogs are achieving toxins through absorption of food, water and other elements in their physical surrounding making the skin of the frog lethal to any potential threats (including humans). It makes one take a stroll along the beautiful flowers regretting, that one may pay a heavy price if they get near them.
11. The River Dolphin
Essentially and as wonderful and friendly as the river dolphins may seem to many people out there, we must consider that with so much power and freedom from any type of captivity any large mammal of the sea could be dangerous.. Fish hatcheries are important in the river system, however, like any wild animal, they can attack when provoked. Caution! These social mammals are also great in size and strength may just baffle you.
Boating through the river of India can be a pleasurable experience and it can be full of surprises. But, of course, wherever there is water, there might be some dangerous creatures living there too. In fishing, swimming or merely sight seeing, the best advice that you can give is to always have a healthy amount of respect for what lies within the river. So, the next time there is water near a river in India one can safely think that danger could be just under the surface.
Also Read :- Top 10 Animals That Live the Longest