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IDENTIFY THAT SPIDER!
Spiders are ancient animals with a history going back many millions of years. They are abundant and widespread and are natural controllers of insect populations. Spiders are probably one of the most feared pests, however not all species are dangerous.
Spider venoms are a cocktail of many chemicals. Some are neurotoxins, which evolved to kill or immobilise arthropods like insects by attacking their nervous systems; others are cytotoxins which help break down the tissue so the spider can ingest a liquefied meal. Unfortunately, a few of these chemicals can be seriously toxic to people.
There are thousands of species of spiders in Australia. Only two have bites which are capable of causing death - the Funnel-Web spider and the Redback spider.
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Redback Spider
Dark brown to black abdomen with a red mark which may not always be obvious. Long thin legs. Female more venomous.
DANGEROUS
Life threatening
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Sydney Funnel-Web Spider
Dark brown to black. Shiny back. Long slender spinnerets. Male more venomous and has spur on second pair of legs.
DANGEROUS
Life threatening
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White Tail Spider
Dark reddish brown to black cigar shaped body. White tip prominent in juveniles which fades as spider matures
DANGEROUS
Can cause severe injury
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Black House Spider
Brown to black. Velvety appearance. Webbing may be mistaken for that of a Funnel Web. Timid and rarely bites
Painful Bite. Not considered to be
life threatening
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Mouse Spider
Often confused with Funnel Webs. Much larger head. Male black/blue. Female brown/ black. May have red head.
DANGEROUS
Can cause severe injury
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Wolf Spider
Grey to brown in colour with distinct union jack pattern on its back. Non aggressive spider but will bite if provoked.
Painful Bite. Not considered to be
life threatening
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You should always treat spiders with respect and caution. A spider bite can be a very painful experience and prompt first aid is essential.
For detailed spider first aid information Take a look at our blog article titled: Spider Bite First Aid
If you have any queries we can help you with or you are interested in making a booking for your property please Email or call us on 02 8783 8833
If you would like a quote for treatment at your property please complete our Free Quote Form
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