Great Barrier Reef - Cautions

Besides the Crown of Thorn starfish, the Great Barrier Reef presents more dangers that lurk in those beautiful, clear waters.

The sting of the Box Jellyfish is so venomous and painful, that you may go into shock and drown.

The Stone Fish is another venomous danger. It looks like a rock and hides between rocks or in mud and sand. Because of its camouflage, you may not see it and step on it.

Cone Shells, also called Cone Snails may have gorgeous shells as housing, but their sting can be highly poisonous. Keep an eye on the kids and don't let them pick up any shells without making sure it is empty.

Stingrays are usually very gentle creatures, but it is best to stay clear from them: Steve Irwin was killed by one of them.

The Blue Ringed Octopus may grow up to just 8 inches long, but this little one has a ferocious and deadly poison. It carries enough to kill up to 20 grown-ups within a few minutes. No matter how pretty and small it appears: don't touch it!

Of course there is also the Great White and smaller, but not less dangerous, shark species to keep an eye out for as well as the salt water Crocodiles.

I hope this did not scare you out of the water, because even on land there are some animals which you better avoid: snakes like the Taipan, the brown snake, the red bellied black snake and tiger snake, as well as the Red Back and Funnel Web spider.

Due to the increased activity on the water, several boating accidents have happened; so keep your eyes pealed when operating one. In case you are not very experienced in diving, take some of the offered lessons and stick to the instructions.

Enjoy your stay "Down Under". :-)