Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous?

The Huntsman spider can be found in tree hollows, rock walls, logs, the ground, and vegetation, as well as under loose bark and in fissures. These spiders prefer to live in warm, moist conditions. Their range is extensive, covering Australia, Africa, Asia, the Americas, as well as the Mediterranean region. These spiders, despite their large size, are not regarded to be dangerous to the general public.

Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous?

Huntsman spiders are not deadly to humans. They’re dangerous in the sense that their bites can be quite painful, but they generally only cause local swelling.

The fact that these spiders are not deadly may be surprising to some. After all, Huntsmen spiders are extremely intimidating and rank among the largest spiders on Earth thanks to their incredibly long legs. Amazingly, the giant huntsman, which is believed to be the largest spider in the world, wasn’t discovered until 2001! The spider lives in caves in Laos and measures 12 inches across.

Just take a moment to pause and think about that, the largest spider in the world wasn’t even discovered until the past 25 years!

Not all Huntsman spiders are this size, however. In Australia, there are 94 species of Huntsman spiders and few specimens reach larger than 6 inches across. Yet, Huntsman spiders in Australia have even been filmed dragging mice up walls. Which is to say, they can still grow quite large.

Although huntsman spiders are venomous and their bites can be painful to humans, they are not dangerous. Localized swelling, pain with onset nausea, or headaches are frequently the sole symptoms of a huntsman spider bite.

Can Huntsman Spiders Kill You?

Huntsman spiders are incapable of killing humans. However, it would be a mistake to assume that just because huntsman spiders aren’t extremely dangerous, they’re ok to handle. Huntsman spider bites can cause regional swelling and pain in humans. In short, they can be quite painful.

If bitten by a Huntsman, make sure to remain calm. Bandaging spider bites can cause more pain as it causes restrictions that keep venom in a limited space. Instead, use an ice pack to reduce swelling.

Is It Safe To Handle A Huntsman Spider?

It is not advised to handle any wild or unknown spider. You should not pick them up or trample on them with your bare feet. If you threaten them by picking them up or treading on them, they will bite you.

Keep in mind that Hunstman prefer to avoid confrontations. So if you see one they will likely not be aggressive unless agitated. If you don’t actively approach Huntsman spiders, the odds of being bitten are extremely low.

Are Huntsman Spiders Venomous?

While huntsman spiders are venomous and their bites can be uncomfortable to people, they do not cause anything more serious than moderate nausea or headaches, according to the scientists. A huntsman spider bite usually only causes localized inflammation and pain.

Should I Worry If I Get Bitten By A Huntsman Spider?

In most cases, a spider bite does not necessitate medical attention. However, there are a few circumstances in which you should seek medical attention right away if you’ve been bitten by a spider. If you believe or know a black widow or brown recluse spider bit you, call 911 and proceed to the nearest hospital.

Why Do Huntsman Spiders Run At You?

Huntsman spiders are often afraid if they race towards you. Huntsmen are extremely swift, but they are easily confused. They don’t see in the same way we do, and they can’t see us from afar. They’re not aggressive spiders at all; in fact, most are afraid to bite and will try to flee from any hazards they come across.

How Big Are Huntsman Spiders?

Adults Huntsman spiders have a body length that’s generally around one inch and a leg span of three to five inches. Females have a bigger body size than males, especially in the abdomen. However, in some regions, there are what are known as Giant Huntsman Spiders, which are one of the largest spiders in the entire world.

What Are Giant Huntsman Spiders?

The largest spider by diameter is the giant huntsman spider, which has a leg span of up to twelve inches. Most huntsman species are native to Asia, and the giant huntsman was discovered in Laos.

Where Do Huntsman Spiders Lay Eggs?

The female huntsman spider is a protective mother. She’ll lay all two hundred of her eggs in an egg sack hidden behind bark or beneath a rock. She will stand guard for three weeks, without eating, to protect the eggs while they are developing.

Can Huntsman Spiders Hurt Cats Or Dogs?

Pets, especially cats, like chasing or pawing at spiders. Despite their generous size and active nature, huntsman spiders are usually harmless to cats and dogs. If your pet consumes a Hunstman, the venom from a huntsman won’t impact them the same way it does from a bite.

How Do I Get Rid Of Huntsman Spiders?

In your home or business, a Huntsman spider is simple to eradicate. A sheet of paper and a glass or plastic container is all you’ll need! As quickly as possible, place the container over the spider. After they’ve been confined, turn the container over and slip the sheet of paper under them.

If you find a spider infestation in your home, it is highly recommended that you take the necessary steps to eliminate them. Alternatively, contact a professional for a safe dismissal or termination.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © John McQueen/Shutterstock.com