Australia is renowned for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, but it’s also famous for something a bit more unsettling – its spiders. With thousands of species calling Australia home, it’s no surprise that this country has earned a reputation for harbouring some of the most dangerous spiders in the world. But how worried should you really be? In this article, we’ll look into some of the different spider species found locally, their venomous potential and what you should do if you encounter one.
The Diversity of Spiders in Australia
Australia is home to an astounding variety of spiders, with over 4,000 species identified and described so far. Experts estimate that the total number of spider species in Australia could reach up to 10,000. While this might send shivers down the spine of an arachnophobe, it’s important to note that the majority of these spiders are not dangerous to humans.
While most spiders are harmless, and only a handful of them pose any real threat. Among the dangerous ones, are the Funnel Web Spider and the Redback Spider are the most infamous. However, even with these notorious species, fatalities are exceedingly rare thanks to effective anti venoms and prompt medical treatment.
Understanding the Real Risk
Despite the high number of spider species, the likelihood of being bitten by a dangerous spider in Australia is quite low. There have been very few deaths attributed to spider bites, with only a handful of cases occurring before the introduction of anti venoms. The reality is, you’re more likely to be injured in a car accident than to suffer a fatal spider bite. Most spider bites result in mild symptoms such as localised pain, redness or swelling. However, it’s always important to take precautions. Simple steps like checking your shoes before putting them on and being aware of your surroundings can go a long way in preventing an unpleasant encounter with a spider. If you do get bitten, applying cold water or ice to the area and seeking immediate medical attention can make all the difference.
Some of the Most Dangerous Spiders
While the vast majority of spiders in Australia are harmless, there are a few species that you should be aware of due to their venomous nature.
Funnel-Web Spider (Atrax robustus)
The Funnel-Web is arguably the most feared spider in Australia, known for its highly toxic venom. Found primarily in New South Wales, this spider is capable of delivering a bite that can be fatal if not treated quickly. However, an effective anti-venom has been available since the 1980s, drastically reducing the risk of death.
Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasselti)
The Redback Spider is another notorious species, often found in urban areas, particularly in dry, sheltered spaces like garages and garden sheds. While its bite can cause severe pain and symptoms such as nausea, an anti-venom has made fatalities extremely rare.
Trap Door Spider (Ctenizidae)
While not as venomous as the Funnel-Web or Redback, the Trap Door Spider can still deliver a painful bite. These spiders are known for their clever hunting techniques, camouflaging themselves near the entrances of their burrows to catch prey.
White Tailed Spider (Lampona cylindrata)
Native to southern and eastern Australia, the White Tailed Spider is often feared for its bite, which can cause mild pain and sometimes more severe reactions in sensitive individuals. However, it is generally not considered dangerous to humans.
Huntsman Spider (Sparassidae family)
The Huntsman is one of the most recognisable spiders in Australia, thanks to its large size and long legs. Despite its somewhat intimidating appearance, the Huntsman is relatively harmless to humans. These spiders are not aggressive and prefer to flee rather than bite. You’ll often find them hiding in cars, garages, or under furniture, quietly going about their business.
Precautionary Measures and Call the Experts
By taking simple precautions, you can help minimise the risk of an unpleasant encounters with spider. For instance, always check your shoes before putting them on, be cautious when reaching into dark corners and keep your home clean and clutter free to reduce hiding spots for spiders. Remember, if you’re unsure or have a problem with potentially dangerous spiders in your home, then just give our experts a call.