A tarantula crossing the road caused a collision that left a motorcyclist in the hospital in California. Two tourists from Switzerland, in an effort to spare the spider’s life, made an abrupt stop on state route 190 in Death Valley National Park. Unfortunately, a 24-year-old Canadian motorcyclist crashed into the back of their rented camper van, resulting in injuries. Miraculously, the tarantula escaped unharmed. The motorcyclist was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, and his condition is currently unknown. The National Park Service (NPS) Superintendent, Mike Reynolds, who was the first to arrive at the scene, emphasized the need for caution while driving through the park, as there are still gravel patches and various wildlife species roaming the area due to recent flood damage.
The NPS also warned visitors that tarantulas are most commonly seen during autumn, as the males venture out of their burrows in search of mates. While tarantula bites may feel similar to bee stings, they are not deadly to humans. This incident is not isolated, as there have been other unfortunate encounters between tourists and wildlife in America’s national parks this year. In July, a woman in Phoenix suffered severe injuries after being bitten by a bison at Yellowstone National Park. Additionally, an eight-year-old child sustained minor injuries from a cougar attack in Olympic National Park, Washington state.
It serves as a reminder for visitors to exercise caution and respect the wildlife while enjoying the beauty of these natural wonders.
