The Huntsman Spider: Perth’s Eight-Legged Wonder
The Huntsman Spider is one of Australia’s most well-known spiders, and people who live in Perth frequently find them inside their homes, cars and gardens. These hairy spiders are one of the largest in the sprassidae family with their huge size, flattened shape and swift actions. Despite their pretty look and scary appearance, Huntsman Spiders are typically harmless to humans and help keep the insect population in check.
Appearance and Size
Huntsman spiders have thin, long legs and flattened bodies that enable them to fit into their hiding place under bark, rocks or other debris. They are grey to brown, with a striped pattern on the legs, and have a leg span of approximately 30 cm. With their eight eyes, they have great sight, enabling them to easily follow prey and move conveniently. Females are known to guard egg sacs and spiderlings, an uncommon trait among spiders.
Behaviour and Hunting
Huntsman spiders, unlike web-building spiders, are hunters. They capture their prey instead of spinning webs using speed, agility and camouflage. Huntsman spiders can’t jump or fly, but they scuttle devilishly fast and are effective hunters. Their diet includes insects such as flies, moths and cockroaches, providing natural pest control in gardens and the home.
Most huntsman spiders are nocturnal and hide during the day. They like dark, snug spots — loose bark, rock crevices and occasionally even man-made things such as sheds, cars and homes.
Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous?
Huntsman spiders are poisonous, though their venom is not as toxic to humans like others. A bite may cause:
Local pain and swelling
Redness or mild irritation
Temporary discomfort
Severe reactions are uncommon. If you are bitten, use a cold compress and watch for symptoms. If you have continued discomfort or an allergic reaction, see a doctor.
Huntsman bites are generally harmless for pet dogs and cats, but you might want to make sure their environment is free of hiding spots where spiders can shelter.
How to Prevent Huntsman Spiders Indoors
Caulk windows, doors and joint gaps in your piping
Clean-up clutter like woodpiles or so on.
Try using natural repellents such as peppermint, tea tree or citrus oils
Keep your home clean, vacuum the darker corners and under things like furniture
Coexisting with Huntsman Spiders in Perth
Despite their fearsome looks, Huntsman spiders are beneficial and rarely aggressive. They provide natural pest control and contribute to Perth’s ecosystem. However, if you want to safely manage or remove spiders, professional help is recommended.
Elite Termite Treatment Yokine offers all pest control services in Yokine and surrounding areas, including spider removal. Our team can handle Huntsman spiders, termites, and other pests efficiently and safely.
📞 Call (08) 6275 6584
🌐 Visit: https://elitetermitetreatment.com.au/
