Spiders are pretty common pests in Australia. They are classified as arachnids. This is a class of animals that includes scorpions, ticks and mites. According to statistics, there are more than 4000 species residing in Australia. While some Australian spiders come out as non-dangerous. Others are classified as dangerous and poisonous ones. Also, spiders are beneficial for the environment. As they feed on insects and reduce the pests around. But they have their threats. When provoked, Australian spiders can cause painful bites. Leading to allergies and skin conditions.
Types of spider pests we commonly come across in AustraliaFunnel-web spiders
- Funnel-web spider’s colour ranges from blue-black to brown. Their body length is usually 1-5 cm.
- These spiders are very common in Australia. And are quite dangerous as well. This is due to their fast-acting venom.
Redback spiders -
- Firstly, this type of spider species is small in size. Almost 5 mm to 15mm long. The male spiders have yellow and white markings. Whereas the females have a red stripe - which is their identity.
- Secondly, these spiders seek shelter under - rocks, logs, floorboards and shelves. Moreover, their breeding process is pretty fast as well.
- Therefore, redback spiders are highly dangerous. As their bites are very poisonous and can be fatal.
Whitetail spiders -
- The identity of white tail spiders - one white spot at the top and another at the bottom. It is usually grey.
- Firstly, their size ranges from 12mm to 18mm. They are quite common in South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, Queensland and New South wales.
- Secondly, they are usually found near - gardens, rocks, leaves and laundry.
- Importantly, white tail spiders are also under the category of dangerous. Their bites cause a human eating skin disease.
Huntsman spiders -
- These Australian spiders are hairy. They are usually brown, black and grey. Huntsman spiders are quite big - going up to 160mm.
- These spiders are found near - tree trunks, garden areas, walls and crevices. Also, Huntsman spiders usually feed on other spiders, insects, lizards and frogs.
- Therefore, Huntsman spiders are not as dangerous as the others. And their bites are not harmful.
Mouse spiders -
- These spiders are small and chunky in size. Their colours range from black to brown. And almost 10 species of mouse spiders are found in Australia.
- The size of mouse spiders is almost 3cm. They are commonly found on the eastern seaboard of Australia and nearby.
- Mouse spiders like living underground. Hence, they reside in burrows.
- Therefore, mouse spiders can be potentially very dangerous. Seek professional help immediately.
Blackhouse spiders
- These Australian spiders are very normal looking. And their colour range is dark brown to black legs. And their body is usually grey.
- Blackhouse spiders are usually found in southern and eastern Australia.
- Firstly, the size of these spiders is up to 1.5cm long.
- They are usually found near - walls, buildings, windows, and crevices.
- Therefore, black house spiders come under the category of dangerous. Their bites cause severe nausea, sweating and skin lesions.
Australian tarantula
- Tarantula spiders are usually large ranging from 2.5cm to 12.5cm. Mostly found in areas like the coast and Darwin.
- Their colour ranges from brown to tan. When it comes to tarantulas, females reside in burrows. Whereas, males seek shelter under rocks.
- The males usually die after mating season. But females live up to 12 years.
- Australian tarantulas feed on birds, insects, lizards and frogs.
- Therefore, Australian tarantulas are not so dangerous. But, these spiders can become dangerous if provoked.
Wolf spiders
- These spiders are very common all over Australia. They have a thick body and long legs. Usually has dull colours of grey, brown and black.
- Firstly, the size of wolf spiders reaches up to 1-8cm.
- Wolf spiders are found almost everywhere. For example, trees, bushes, gardens, coastal and burrows.
- They like feeding on crickets, grasshoppers, ants, bugs and other spiders.
- Therefore, wolf spiders are medium to highly dangerous. It is always advised to contact a nearby hospital after a spider bite.
Daddy long-legs
The identity of this specific spider is long thin legs and a small body. Their size is up to 50mm in length. Households and sheds are common spots of daddy longlegs spiders.
These spiders are not very dangerous. But their fangs are the scary part. It can pierce through the human skin.
Conclusion
As we can understand, Australian spiders are a great risk to people around. Their poisonous bites and fangs can cause bad health conditions. Therefore, spider bites must be treated immediately. And also, if you are spotting spiders frequently at your place. Do not delay. Call immediately for Pest Control Services. Simple prevention measures can limit spider pests at your place. In a matter of minutes, our local pest controllers will be at your door and provide you with the pest control service you require.