How to identify poisonous vs. non-poisonous spiders found in Australia
Australia is home to a diverse range of spiders, with over 10,000 known species in the world. While most of these spiders are not harmful to humans, some can be venomous and pose a significant threat to human health. As such, it is essential to know how to distinguish poisonous from non-poisonous spiders, especially if you live or work in areas where spiders are commonly found.
Through this blog, we will provide you with valuable information on identifying the most common poisonous and non-poisonous spiders found in Australia. By knowing this information, you can recognize the different types of spiders and take the necessary precautions to keep your family and yourself safe.
The key to identifying a spider is its size and shape. Poisonous spiders tend to be larger and more rounded in shape, while non-poisonous spiders tend to be smaller and have more angular shapes. Color is another helpful way to identify poisonous spiders. Poisonous spiders tend to be black with yellow or orange stripes, while non-poisonous spiders are usually brown or red with black stripes. Furthermore, we can also identify poisonous spiders by the shape of their bites. Poisonous spiders tend to make deep bites with narrow incisions. On the other hand, non-poisonous spiders tend to make shallow bites with wider wounds. Here are some of the most common poisonous and non-poisonous spiders found in Australia:
- The Redback Spider
Redback spiders are one of the most venomous spiders in Australia and are found in the proximity of homes and other buildings. Especially in young children, the bites of a redback spider can be fatal; thus, every bite must be treated with utmost caution. The female redback spider is mostly venomous and distinguished by a black and red stripe on the back of its abdomen. The male redback spider is smaller and does not have a red stripe on his back. They tend to reside in dark, dry areas and sheltered areas, such as beneath garden furniture, logs, or rocks.
- The Funnel-Web Spider
The funnel-web spider is another highly venomous spider found in Australia. They are found in the eastern coastal areas of Australia, from southern Queensland to eastern Victoria. They are usually found in burrows in the ground or in trees, and they have a distinctive funnel-shaped web. The male funnel-web spider is smaller and more slender than the female, and they have a spur on their second legs that can be used to deliver venom.
- White-Tailed Spider
The white-tailed spider is a venomous spider that is found throughout Australia. They are commonly found in homes, gardens, and other urban areas. They can be identified by their cylindrical body shape and a white patch at the end of their abdomen. While the white-tailed spider's venom is not deadly, it can cause swelling, redness, and severe pain in the form of skin ulceration.
- Huntsman Spider
The huntsman spider is a non-venomous spider found throughout Australia. They are commonly found in narrow spaces under loose bark or rock crevices, in homes, and in other urban areas. They are identifiable by their large size and long legs, which can range from 1 to 15 centimeters in diameter. Huntsman spiders are usually brown or gray in color with banded legs.
- Wolf Spider
The wolf spider is a non-venomous spider found throughout Australia. They are commonly found in grassy areas, forests, and deserts. They are identifiable by their large size, which can range from 0.5 inches to more than 2 inches in length. Wolf spiders have long legs and are usually brown or gray in color. They have a distinctive eye pattern, with three rows of dark eyes arranged in sets of four, two, and two, with the first row having the smallest.
If you are unsure about the type of spider you have encountered, it is always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice. At Formula Pest Control, we understand the importance of providing safe and effective pest control services. Our team of trained professionals has the expertise and experience to identify and effectively control spider infestations in residential and commercial properties. We use environmentally friendly pest control techniques that are safe for your family, pets, and the environment. We guarantee the best results in pest control management in Melbourne.