Danger, Will Robinson.

Pre-Trip Entry #2

So after 36 hours of reading and wikipedia-ing I’ve voted to not go in the water in Australia. You can enjoy the beauty of the beach from the sand…But really, I’m not sure if it’s the 166 species of shark present in Aussie land or the various types of deadly invertebrates that urges me the most to keep my toes on the coast.

Case One: Box Jellyfish

Now I’ve been told that I am lucky to be going to Australia during its winter because the box jellyfish will have migrated, but I thought I’d check it out anyway…you know, just know what’s out there. And I’m glad I did, because I’m now aware that this is not a creature to underestimate.

Apparently attacks have been recorded from box jellyfish EVEN in the winter. Also, their venom just so happens to be the most deadly in the entire animal kingdom. That’s just great, that means more venomous than that of the 5 out of 10 most dangerous snakes that reside in the country, which I will ALSO be avoiding People die in minutes from these things, they have over 5000 stinging cells! Nets are put up on beaches to keep them out. Ick.

Case Two: Spiders

So I decided to check out the spider situation. I had read to watch out for the funnel-web spider, and thought I was safe when I found that their are two forms of the spider and one is not fatal to humans. NOT the one in Sydney. No, Sydney apparently has its own species of the spider that, of course, on of the most deadly spiders in the world. And guess what, they often hang out near water and can be found in swimming pools. Mmm hmm, staying dry.

The redback spider is also feared but seems to be much less venomous and less likely of injecting venom when/if it bites. But still, it’s related the the black widow which is way creepy.

I think this is enough obsession for the day. I don’t think I can handle finding out more about the dangers of this mysterious land. If you really want to wow yourself, check out the carnivorous birds that reside there.