Huntsman spiders are big and fast. They often appear on walls, ceilings, or even inside cars. Their long legs and sudden movements can be startling.
Many people fear them, thinking they’re aggressive or dangerous. But is that really true?
This blog clears up the confusion. We will discuss what huntsman spiders are, if they are dangerous, and what to do should one be discovered at home. Let’s get to the facts.
Understanding the Huntsman Spider
Huntsman spiders are known for their flat bodies and long, spindly legs. Their leg span can reach up to 15 cm, making them one of the largest spiders in Australia. They are usually brown or grey, often with patterns that help them blend into tree bark, rocks, and even home interiors.
These spiders prefer warm, sheltered environments. You’ll find them in tree trunks, under loose bark, and inside sheds or garages. They also wander indoors, especially in summer, seeking cooler spots.
Despite their intimidating size, huntsman spiders are not aggressive. They are fast movers, using their speed to escape rather than attack. Unlike web-building spiders, they hunt their prey by chasing and pouncing. They are mostly nocturnal, staying hidden during the day and becoming active at night.
Huntsman spiders play an important role in pest control. They feed on cockroaches, moths, and other insects, keeping household pests in check. While their sudden movements may be alarming, they are actually beneficial creatures that help maintain the natural balance.
Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous to Humans?
No, huntsman spiders are not dangerous to humans. They may look intimidating, but their venom is mild and not harmful. Unlike highly venomous Australian spiders, such as the funnel-web or redback, a huntsman’s bite is not medically significant.
Bites from huntsman spiders are rare. These spiders are not aggressive and prefer to run away rather than fight. If they do bite, it’s usually in self-defense, like when they’re trapped or handled roughly. The symptoms are mild—some redness, swelling, and minor pain, similar to a bee sting. Most people recover quickly without any treatment.
In contrast, funnel-web spiders have venom that attacks the nervous system, requiring urgent medical attention. Redback spiders can also cause severe symptoms, including nausea, sweating, and muscle pain. Huntsman spiders pose no such risk.
At worst, a huntsman might give you a fright by darting across your wall. They are more of a nuisance than a threat, often startling people but rarely causing harm.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
“They are aggressive and attack humans.”
False. Huntsman spiders are not aggressive and do not attack people. Their fast movements can make them seem scary, but they prefer to avoid conflict. If they run toward you, it’s likely because they are trying to escape. They rely on speed to get away from threats, not to chase humans.
“Their bites are deadly.”
This is another myth. Huntsman spiders do have venom, but it’s mild and not dangerous to humans. Medical research confirms that their bites cause only minor swelling or discomfort, similar to a bee sting. There have been no known deaths from a huntsman spider bite.
“They lay eggs in cars and invade homes in swarms.”
Not true. While huntsman spiders may take shelter in cars or homes, they don’t invade in groups. They are solitary hunters, not social spiders. A female may lay eggs in a hidden spot, but she doesn’t lead an army of spiders into your home. If you see multiple huntsman spiders, it’s just a coincidence, not an infestation.
How to Keep Huntsman Spiders Out of Your Home
Huntsman spiders may be harmless, but that doesn’t mean you want them indoors. The best way to keep them out is by sealing cracks and entry points around windows, doors, and walls. Spiders love to hide, so reducing clutter in storage areas, garages, and under furniture makes your home less inviting. Since they feed on insects, keeping outdoor lighting low can help, as bright lights attract bugs, which in turn attract spiders.
If you find a huntsman inside, avoid squashing it. Instead, use a glass and a piece of cardboard to safely capture and release it outside. These spiders help control household pests, so it’s best to relocate rather than kill them. If you’re uncomfortable handling them, gently encouraging them toward an open door or window can work too.
When to Consider Spider Pest Control Services?
Huntsman spiders are not dangerous, but if you keep seeing them indoors, it might be a sign of a larger pest issue. These spiders thrive in places with a high insect population, so frequent sightings could mean your home has an underlying pest problem. If you notice persistent spider activity, professional pest control can help address both the spiders and their food sources.
At Bugs Or Us Pest Control, we offer safe and effective spider pest control services to keep your home pest-free. As a trusted Australian pest control service, we use eco-friendly, non-toxic solutions to create an environment that’s less inviting for both spiders and insects. Our experienced team understands how to manage and prevent pest infestations, ensuring long-term results without harming the environment. Contact us for any service – be it cockroach or termite treatment in taree too!
Conclusion
Huntsman spiders aren’t dangerous, but frequent sightings may signal a pest issue. Bugs Or Us Pest Control can help with —contact us for expert solutions.