How to Identify and Discriminate Dangerous Spiders

Hundreds of different spiders have been identified in Australia, including some of the most venomous species in the world. However, most creepy-crawly creatures are found outdoors under rocks and on tree branches and bushes. Only a select few venture indoors, and for the most part, those that do are harmless to humans. Here’s a look at both the most common, harmless spiders in Australia and the ones you need to stay away from.

Daddy Long Legs Spider

Found in just about every home, garage and basement in Australia, the harmless Daddy Long Legs is a common household spider. And, despite its reputation to the contrary, the Daddy Long Legs is absolutely harmless to humans. The Daddy Long Legs is easily identified by its extremely long legs and tiny creamy gray to pale brown body.

Black House Spider and Grey House Spider

Two common household spiders that can be dangerous to humans are the Black House Spider and its close relative, the Grey House Spider. Sometimes called window spiders because of their habit of building funnel-shaped webs in window corners, these spiders are found in many homes, especially in the east and south of Australia. Although they’re generally not aggressive, the bite of either species can be severe and may cause nausea, vomiting, sweating and/or local pain and swelling. If you’re bitten by either of these spiders, you should seek medical care immediately.

White-Tailed Spider

White-tailed spiders come out at night and feed on other spiders, particularly the potentially harmful Black House Spider. This species, commonly found hiding in towels and shoes left on the floor in the home, is easily identified by its gray body and well-defined white coloration on its abdomen. The bite of a white-tailed spider can be extremely painful and cause extremely discomfort and illness.

Huntsman Spider

There are many different species of huntsman spiders in Australia. They are easily identifiable by their large flat body and extremely long legs, often spanning as much as five inches. They not only hide in tight spaces in a home, but are sometimes found in cars hiding behind sun visors. Because of their size and intimidating appearance, huntsman spiders appear a lot scarier than they are dangerous. Their bites seldom cause more than some temporary local swelling.

Sydney Funnel-Web Spider

The Sydney Funnel-House spider, found only within a hundred kilometer radius of Sydney, is one of the most dangerous spiders in Australia. This large spider can grow up to two inches in body length, with a thick, shiny black body and hairy legs. Though seldom seen in the house, this spider has been known to wander into homes and bite with no warning. It is usually found spinning funnel-shaped webs in cool but humid spots under and around homes, particularly around swimming pools. Their venom can cause nausea, vomiting, sweating, body and headaches and can even be deadly. If bitten by a Sydney Funnel-Web spider, you should seek immediate medical attention. If treatment is sought quickly, there is a very effective anti-venom that has eliminated the lethal threat of this dangerous spider. If you happen to spot a Sydney Funnel-Web Spider in your home, call a professional Sydney pest control company immediately. Visit the Australian Geographic journal for more information of the 10 most dangerous Australian spiders.