Common Spiders in Australia: How to Identify and Deal With Them

In Australia, there are more than 2,900 recorded types of spiders, from the benign garden variety to highly venomous sorts such as the Perth Funnel-web. With so much variety, it can be intimidating trying to figure out which spider is which. It’s important to identify what is dangerous from what we need not worry about, which is key to our safety and peace-of-mind.

Common Australian Spiders

There are several spiders often encountered in Australia:

1. Redback Spider: Small black spider with an orange to red hourglass marking on the underside of its abdomen. Venomous bites require medical attention.

2. Huntsman Spider: Over a dozen species of large spiders in the family Sparassidae that are ground dwellers. Harmless and Common in Househomes.

3. White-tailed Spider: A small brown spider which has a white end on its tail. Bites can cause minor irritation.

4. Black House Spider: Dark spider that can build funnel webs in the corners. Non-venomous.

5. Mouse Spider: Dark-colored, burrowing spider. Venomous; the venom is seldom dangerous to humans.

6. Daddy Long Legs Spider: The little spider with the very long legs. Harmless to humans.

7. The Australian Tarantula: Huge hairy type of spider that burrows. Gentle poison, nonsensitive to humans.

8. Wolf Spider: Robust hunting spider. Venomous but not dangerous.

9. Jumping Spider: Colorful rather small spider that has good vision. Non-venomous.

10. Orb-weaving Spider: Weaves very complex circular webs. Non-venomous.

These spiders are vitally important to the control of insects and in nature’s chain-of-life, create a balance. Knowing what they look like and behave will help you to identify them correctly

Spider Bites and Safety

While most spiders are harmless, bites do happen:

• Mild bites: You may experience redness, swelling or slight irritation.

• Venomous snake and spider bites: Individuals bitten by Funnel-web or Redback spiders may have serious symptoms. Seek immediate medical help.

Steps to handle spider bites safely:

1. Wash the bite location with soap and water.

2. Use a cold pack to help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

3. Raise the affected limb if you can.

4. Avoid scratching the bite.

5. Use over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines.

6. Consult a doctor for venomous spiders or if you experience serious symptoms.

Catching or taking a picture of the spider in a safe manner can also assist doctors in identifying the species.

Tips for Preventing Spider Encounters

• Keep the home clean and uncluttered.

• Stop up wall and window cracks, gaps and openings.

• Clear away rubbish and dead leaves from the building area.

• Shake any shoes, clothes, and bedding that were stored away before use especially outdoor items.

• Think about hiring a pest control expert for potential problem areas or when you have infestations that won’t go away.

Final Thoughts

Australian spiders are varied, interesting and mostly harmless. But by learning to recognise common, dangerous species of spiders, by taking precautions and knowing how to treat bites, you can live safely. Huntsman, Wolf and Orb-weaving spiders are beneficial - these guys assist in naturally controlling insect numbers.

For professional spider and pest control in Midvale, contact Edge Termite Treatment Midvale at (08) 6275 6528 or visit our website.