Australia is home to a diverse and abundant spider population, with over 2,400 known species spread across the continent. Let’s discuss some of the most common types of spiders found in Australia, their habitats, prevalence, and bites.
White-Tailed Spider
The White-Tailed Spider, scientifically known as Lampona cylindrata, is a species indigenous to Australia. These spiders are easily recognised by their distinct morphological features. Adult White-Tailed Spiders usually measure around 1 to 2 cm in body length and have a cylindrical shape. They are commonly dark brown to black in colour and have a creamy white spot at the tip of their abdomen, which gives them their name.
In terms of hunting methods, the White-Tailed Spider is known to be an active hunter. They typically hunt at night and prey on other arachnids, including other spiders. They are known to inject venom into their prey to immobilise them, making it easier for the spider to feed on them.
While their bites may cause minor symptoms in some individuals, the notion of necrotic arachnidism associated with White-Tailed Spider bites is largely unfounded.
Black House Spider
The Black House Spider, also known as the Badumna insignis, is a species commonly found in Australia. As the name suggests, it has a predominantly black appearance, with the females measuring about 1.5 centimetres long and the males being slightly smaller. These spiders have a bulbous abdomen and long, thin legs that contribute to their overall menacing look.
In terms of habitat, the Black House Spider can be found in various environments, including gardens, sheds, garages, and of course, houses. They typically construct their webs in dark, undisturbed corners, such as the eaves of buildings or under shelves. This spider species prefers cool and dry conditions, allowing them to thrive indoors.
The lifecycle of the Black House Spider is relatively short, lasting just around 18 months. After mating, the female produces a distinctive silk sac containing up to 300 eggs, which she attaches to her web. Once hatched, the spiderlings disperse through a process called ballooning, where they release a silk thread that catches the wind and carries them to new locations.
When it comes to danger, the Black House Spider carries a moderate danger rating. Although their venom is not considered life-threatening to humans, their bites can cause localised pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes even nausea or dizziness. It is essential to seek medical attention if bitten to ensure proper care and prevent any potential complications.
Funnel Web Spider
The Funnel Web Spider is a fascinating arachnid known for its distinct characteristics, unique habitat, and high danger rating. Found mostly in Australia, this spider is known for its aggressive nature and venomous bite.
In terms of appearance, the Funnel Web Spider is usually large and robust, with a dark brown or black coloration. It possesses powerful fangs and prominent spinnerets at the end of its abdomen. The average size of a male Funnel Web Spider is around 1.5 to 2 cm, while females can reach up to 3.5 cm. This spider is commonly found in moist and sheltered habitats, such as forests, gardens, and burrows.
One of the most notable characteristics of the Funnel Web Spider is its highly aggressive behaviour. It has a strong venomous bite that can pose a significant danger to humans. In fact, it is considered one of the world’s most venomous spiders, with a danger rating of 15 out of 20. The venom of the Funnel Web Spider contains a potent neurotoxin that affects the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as severe pain, sweating, increased heart rate, and even death if left untreated.
Due to the potential danger they pose to humans, it is important to approach the Funnel Web Spider with caution. If bitten, immediate medical attention should be sought. It is also essential to be aware of their preferred habitats and take necessary precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear and gloves when working in potential spider-infested areas.
Garden Orb-Weaving Spider (Garden Orb Weavers)
The Garden Orb-Weaving Spider, also known as Garden Orb Weavers, is a common spider found in gardens and wooded areas around the world. These spiders are known for their distinct and eye-catching appearance, with a round abdomen marked with vibrant colours such as yellow, orange, and black. They are usually large in size.
These spiders prefer to make their homes in gardens, meadows, and forests where they can find ample sources of food. They are typically active during the nighttime and rest in their webs during the day. Garden Orb-Weaving Spiders build large, circular webs, positioned horizontally, typically above the ground.
It is not uncommon for humans to encounter Garden Orb Weavers in their outdoor spaces, especially when working in the garden or walking through woods. However, these spiders are non-aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. Their bites are usually harmless to humans, causing only mild discomfort, similar to a mosquito bite.
Huntsman Spider
The huntsman spider, known for its distinctive characteristics, fascinating behaviours, and widespread habitat, is a formidable arachnid species. These spiders can be found in various parts of Australia, particularly in warm climates.
In terms of appearance, huntsman spiders are known for their large size and long, spindly legs. They have a flattened body shape, with a range of colours including brown, grey, and black, helping them to camouflage effectively in their surroundings. Additionally, their eyes are arranged in two rows, enabling them to have a wide field of vision.
Huntsman spiders are renowned for their remarkable hunting skills. Unlike most spiders, they do not spin webs to catch prey; they rely on stealth and speed to capture their victims. With their impressive speed and agility, they can easily manoeuvre through different terrains, including on walls and ceilings. These spiders are also known for their defensive behaviours, using their swift movements and venomous bites to protect themselves if threatened.
The habitat of huntsman spiders can vary greatly, as they are adaptable to a wide range of environments. They can be found in forests, gardens, and even homes. They are particularly fond of warm, dark places, such as crevices and under bark, where they can construct their nests.
In terms of size, huntsman spiders can vary, but they generally have a leg span of 10 to 15 centimetres. This makes them one of the largest spider species in the world. They undergo a lifecycle that includes egg-laying, hatching into spiderlings, and moulting several times before reaching adulthood.
Mouse Spider
The mouse spider is a venomous arachnid found predominantly in Australia. It gets its name from its mouse-like appearance, with a robust body and short legs. These spiders range in size from 1 to 3 centimetres, with males typically being smaller than females.
They are widely distributed across various regions of Australia, including parts of New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria. They prefer habitats with moist, sandy soils, such as coastal dunes or riverbanks.
The lifecycle of a mouse spider begins with eggs being laid in specialised silk burrows. The eggs hatch into spiderlings, which will moult and grow into adult spiders over several years. The male mouse spiders often wander in search of females during mating season.
As predators, mouse spiders feed primarily on insects like crickets, beetles, and ants. They use their venom to paralyse their prey before consuming it. This venom can also be dangerous to humans, as mouse spiders possess a potent venom similar to Sydney funnel web spiders.
The bite of a mouse spider can cause severe symptoms, including intense pain, swelling, sweating, and nausea. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if bitten, as a mouse spider bite can be potentially life-threatening. Therefore, they have a high danger rating.
Red Headed Mouse Spider
The Red Headed Mouse Spider, also known as Missulena occatoria, is an intriguing arachnid native to Australia. One of its most distinguishing physical characteristics is its vibrant red forepart, which contrasts against the deep black colour of its abdomen. Additionally, it is characterised by its compact shape and relatively small size, typically measuring about 1-2 centimetres in length. Another notable feature of this spider is its large fang sheaths, which are used to inject venom into its prey.
The life cycle of the Red Headed Mouse Spider is a fascinating process. It takes approximately four years for them to reach maturity. Upon reaching this stage, the males leave their burrows in search of females for mating. The female, on the other hand, lays around 60 or more eggs in her burrow. She then guards and protects the eggs until they hatch, which usually takes several weeks. Once hatched, the spiderlings disperse through a process called ballooning, where they release silk threads and are carried by the wind to new locations.
In terms of their habits, Red Headed Mouse Spiders are predominantly found living in oval burrows, which they construct themselves. These burrows are typically located in sandy or well-drained soil, often in close proximity to watercourse banks. The spiders are known to be predominantly active during the warmer months. They are agile hunters, preying on insects and other small arthropods.
Redback Spider (Red-Back Spider)
The Redback spider (Latrodectus hasseltii), also known as the red-back spider, is a venomous species found in Australia. These spiders are easily recognisable due to the distinctive red or orange marking on the female’s back. This marking resembles an hourglass shape and serves as a warning for potential predators or intruders.
Redback spiders prefer to inhabit dark and sheltered environments, often choosing areas close to human habitation. Garages, sheds, houses, and outdoor furniture are popular spots where these spiders can be found. They are commonly found in urban areas and are often found in outdoor toilets, under eaves, and in empty containers.
In terms of their diet, Redback spiders are carnivorous and feed on a variety of prey. They primarily consume insects such as beetles, flies, and cockroaches. However, they are also known to prey on skinks, small frogs, and occasionally even baby mice. Their venom is highly potent, enabling them to immobilise and liquefy their prey, which they then consume.
St Andrew’s Cross Spider
The St Andrew’s Cross Spider, scientifically known as Argiope keyserlingi, is a fascinating arachnid that can be found in various parts of Australia. This spider possesses a unique physical appearance and exhibits intriguing behaviours.
In terms of its physical appearance, the St Andrew’s Cross Spider is easily recognisable. Females typically measure about 2 centimetres in body length, while males are considerably smaller. The most notable feature of this spider is the distinct cross image found on the web constructed by the female. This cross consists of four diagonal lines that intersect at the centre, resembling the Christian symbol associated with St Andrew.
The St Andrew’s Cross Spider predominantly constructs an orb-shaped web, similar to many other orb-weaving spiders. However, what sets it apart is the strategic placement of its web. Instead of being horizontally oriented, this spider’s web is often constructed at an angle, allowing for better visibility when prey lands on it.
Another characteristic that distinguishes the St Andrew’s Cross Spider from other spiders is the presence of yellow bands on its abdomen. These bands alternate with black and white markings, creating an eye-catching pattern. Additionally, the spider’s web is known to reflect ultraviolet (UV) light, which aids in attracting flying insects.
In terms of habitat preference, the St Andrew’s Cross Spider can be found in various habitats, including gardens, grasslands, and woodlands. Fortunately, this spider is not highly toxic to humans or pets. While its bite may cause minor discomfort, it is not considered dangerous.
Trapdoor Spider
The Trapdoor Spider is a fascinating arachnid characterised by its unique physical features, habitat, and behaviour. This spider is known for its medium to large size, with an average body length ranging from 1 to 3 cm. Its most distinctive characteristic is the presence of a hinged door-like structure at the entrance of its burrow, which it uses to hide from predators and unsuspecting prey.
These spiders typically reside in warm, dry environments such as deserts, grasslands, and forests. They construct their burrows in soil, often near vegetation or rocks, which provide additional cover and stability. The Trapdoor Spider spends most of its life inside these burrows, waiting patiently for prey to come within striking distance.
When hunting, the Trapdoor Spider remains hidden within its burrow until it senses vibrations caused by potential prey. It then lunges out, capturing the unsuspecting victim in its powerful fangs before retreating back into the safety of its burrow. This hunting technique is quite similar to that of other spiders, such as funnel-web spiders.
While the Trapdoor Spider feeds on a variety of insects and small invertebrates, its primary prey consists of beetles, ants, and termites. These spiders are known for their long lifespan, with some species living up to 20 years. Mating habits vary among different species, but most Trapdoor Spiders engage in complex courtship rituals involving drumming their legs, silk-waving, and tactile communication.
Cupboard Spider (Brown House Spider)
The Cupboard Spider, also known as the Brown House Spider, is a common arachnid found in homes and buildings around Australia. It is known for its distinctive brown coloration and relatively small size.
In terms of behaviour, the Cupboard Spider is typically nocturnal, preferring to stay hidden during daylight hours and becoming active at night. It is a non-aggressive spider that does not bite unless threatened. However, it does possess venom and can deliver a mild bite if provoked.
The life cycle of the Cupboard Spider begins with the female laying her eggs in a silken sac. She then guards the sac until the spiderlings hatch. The spiderlings go through several moults before reaching maturity. They typically live for about one to two years.
The Cupboard Spider creates a tangled network of irregular webs, often found in dark corners, cupboards, and other concealed areas within homes. These webs are used to catch small insects that the spider feeds on.
This species prefers warm and dry habitats, making homes and buildings an ideal environment. They are commonly found in cupboards, behind furniture, and in other secluded areas.
Australian Wolf Spider
The Australian Wolf Spider, known scientifically as Lycosa godeffroyi, is a fascinating arachnid found in various parts of Australia. Its appearance is characterised by a robust and hairy body, which can measure up to 2 centimetres in length. The spider’s coloration ranges from dark brown to grey, sometimes exhibiting distinct patterns on its abdomen.
Distributed throughout the whole of Australia, the Australian Wolf Spider can be found across a range of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and deserts. They are particularly common in coastal regions. These spiders prefer hiding in burrows during the day and are primarily nocturnal, actively hunting for prey at night.
Feeding primarily on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, the Australian Wolf Spider plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling local populations of pests.
In terms of danger rating, the bite of an Australian Wolf Spider is painful but non-lethal to humans. The venom can cause local irritation, including swelling and redness, which typically subsides within a few days.
Flick’s Spider Pest Control Services
Flick Pest Control is a leading provider of effective solutions for spider infestations in Australia. With our expertise and knowledge, we offer a range of spider management options to cater to the diverse needs of our customers.
Our spider pest control services encompass both residential and commercial properties, ensuring that all spaces are safeguarded against these eight-legged pests. Our highly trained technicians utilise advanced techniques and safe products to eradicate spiders from your premises effectively.
Trust Flick to protect your property from spiders and ensure peace of mind.
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