Huntsman Spiders in Australia: What You Need to Know
Huntsman spiders are a common sight in many Australian homes and gardens, and while they may look intimidating, they are generally harmless to humans. However, if you’re dealing with an infestation of these spiders, or you simply want to keep them out of your home, it’s important to know more about their behavior and how to manage them. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Huntsman spiders in Australia and discuss pest control options to help keep them at bay.
Appearance
Huntsman spiders are known for their large size and distinctive appearance. They typically have a flat, oval-shaped body and long, thin legs that are covered in hair. Their color can vary from brown to gray, and they often have markings or patterns on their body that can help with identification. Huntsman spiders can grow up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) in leg span, making them one of the largest spider species in Australia.
Huntsman spiders have a unique feature that distinguishes them from most other spiders: their ability to move quickly and gracefully. These spiders are known for their fast and agile movements, and they can move in any direction without spinning webs. This makes them excellent predators, as they are able to chase down and catch their prey with ease.
Behavior
Huntsman spiders are usually found in trees and shrubs, but they are also known to enter homes and other buildings. They are not web-builders, preferring instead to hunt their prey by stalking or ambushing them. Huntsman spiders are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, and they prefer to hide during the day. When they do venture out during the day, they often move slowly and are relatively easy to catch or remove.
While Huntsman spiders are not aggressive towards humans, they can be territorial and may bite if they feel threatened or cornered. Their bite is generally not dangerous, but it can cause mild to moderate pain, swelling, and redness, similar to a bee sting. In rare cases, some people may experience more severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or a headache, but this is relatively uncommon.
It’s worth noting that Huntsman spiders are not venomous, unlike some other spider species in Australia. While their bites can be uncomfortable, they are not generally considered a serious health threat.
Pest Control Options
If you’re dealing with an infestation of Huntsman spiders, or you simply want to keep them out of your home, there are a few pest control options you can consider:
- Prevention: The best way to keep Huntsman spiders out of your home is to prevent them from entering in the first place. This can be done by sealing cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls, as well as using screens on windows and doors. You should also keep your home clean and clutter-free, as Huntsman spiders are attracted to dark, quiet spaces.
- Removal: If you spot a Huntsman spider in your home, you can remove it using a jar or cup and a piece of paper or cardboard. Simply place the jar or cup over the spider and slide the paper or cardboard underneath, then carry the spider outside and release it. You should avoid handling Huntsman spiders directly, as they can be fast and difficult to catch.
- Chemical treatments: If you’re dealing with a large infestation of Huntsman spiders, or if you’re unable to keep them out of your home using prevention methods alone, you may want to consider using chemical treatments. These treatments can include insecticides or sprays that are designed
