Funnel Web Spider
Funnel web spiders are venomous spiders that are native to Australia and are members of the genus Atrax and Hadronyche. They are called funnel web spiders because they construct funnel-shaped webs, with the funnel’s narrow end serving as the entrance to their burrow.
Funnel web spiders are known for their aggressive behaviour and potent venom, and bites from certain species can be life-threatening to humans. However, with prompt medical treatment, the risk of death from a funnel web spider bite is low.
Nevertheless, funnel web spiders are considered a significant health hazard in areas where they are found, and it is essential to take precautions to avoid encounters with them.
Funnel web spiders vary in size and appearance, but many species have a similar body shape and colouration. They typically have a glossy, dark body and can range in size from 1 to 5 cm in length, with the male spiders often smaller than the female spiders. They have large fangs, which are used to inject venom into their prey and potential predators. Some species have distinctive markings on their bodies, such as stripes or spots, which can aid in their identification. Additionally, they have multiple eyes arranged in a pattern on the front of their head.
Funnel web spiders are native to Australia and are typically found in the eastern and south-eastern regions of the country. They inhabit various environments, including temperate forests, woodlands, and suburban areas. Some species of funnel web spiders live in burrows in the ground, while others build their webs in tree hollows, under rocks, or in crevices in structures. Funnel web spiders are commonly found in areas with high humidity and moderate to warm temperatures.
Avoiding a Funnel Web Spider Bite
To avoid being bitten by a funnel web spider, you can follow these tips:
- Wear protective clothing when working or playing in areas where funnel web spiders are known to be present, such as long pants and closed-toe shoes.
- Inspect clothing, shoes, and bedding for spiders before putting them on.
- Keep hands and feet away from crevices and holes in the ground, rocks, trees, and other structures where funnel web spiders may be hiding.
- Avoid reaching into dark, cluttered, or undisturbed areas where funnel web spiders may be.
- Be cautious when handling firewood or rocks, as these can be hiding places for funnel web spiders.
- Remove or reduce sources of moisture in and around your home, as funnel web spiders are attracted to moist environments.
Reacting To a Funnel Web Spider Bite
If a funnel web spider bites you, you will likely experience severe pain at the bite site. There’s a possibility of excessive sweating, high blood pressure, and rapid pulse too. In rare cases, the person may have breathing difficulties. It is advisable to seek immediate medical attention, even if you do not experience any symptoms, as the venom can be life-threatening in some cases.
In the meantime, follow these first-aid steps:
- Remove any tight clothing or jewellery near the bite site, as these can restrict blood flow and increase the spread of venom.
- Immobilise the affected limb and keep it elevated if possible.
- Apply a compression bandage to the bite site to help slow the spread of venom.
Trust Tom's Pest Control
Tom’s Pest Control offers safe and effective spider removal services for all residential and commercial properties. So, if you have seen spiders moving freely on your property, you know it is time to contact the experts.
We know how dangerous funnel-web spiders can be. Hence, if you call us for help, we aim to reach your property immediately to begin the pest control procedure. We promise to adopt a
proactive approach to control these pests and offer suggestions to prevent them from returning.
At Tom’s Pest Control, we begin the pest control procedure with a thorough inspection:
We check every corner of your property to identify where spiders are hiding. Once we find them, we identify their species and prepare a customised treatment plan to get you the best results possible.
We will carry out the extermination carefully to remove all the hiding spiders on your property.
Before we leave, we will share some prevention tips to ensure these pesky pests do not return to your property.
Call Us Now
Give us a call today for safe and effective spider control treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Funnel Web Spider Look Like?
Funnel web spiders are black or dark brown spiders with a glossy appearance. Their body length varies but can range from 1 to 5 cm. Male funnel web spiders are smaller than females but have longer legs. These spiders are known for their funnel-shaped webs, which they use to capture prey.
What Does the Diet of Funnel Web Spiders Include?
Funnel web spiders are predators, and their diet primarily includes insects and other small vertebrates. They use their funnel-shaped webs to capture their prey, which they then immobilise with their venom and consume.
Are Funnel Web Spiders Dangerous?
Yes, funnel web spiders are considered dangerous to humans. They are highly venomous, and their bite can cause severe symptoms, including intense pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and muscle spasms. In extreme cases, their bite can be life-threatening, especially for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
