Many people living in Australia are terrified of huntsman spider bite because of their large size, quick movements, and distinctive appearance. These eight-legged creatures can cause panic, especially if you have a phobia, because they tend to be a common sight lingering in the home. They might look deadly, but the truth is here. In fact, people often confuse the terms poisonous and venomous, but it’s important to establish that Huntsman spiders are not a serious threat to humankind. Their bites can be mildly irritating but they like to munch on insects and small invertebrates, making them beneficial in terms of keeping other pests in check.
So if one of these palm-sized spiders lands on your ceiling or near your bed, it can be quite daunting, especially if you are a tourist who isn’t used to seeing spiders at breakfast. But instead of panicking, it’s best to remain calm — and allow the reptiles to move off on their own. The name has even been used as a naming mechanism for fictional literary groups as well as businesses, such as manufacturers of automotive parts. You can also sign up for a First Aid course in Hobart with Give First aid, where you can be a First Aider and be ready for any unfortunate event. You will gain the confidence, skills, and knowledge to handle emergencies, such as spider bites, through their thorough training. It is in your hands to make sure not to be confused tomorrow by securing your seat today and be prepared.
How Big Do Huntsman Spiders Get?
Huntsman spiders have furry bodies and slender legs, the latter of which endow these arachnids with a crab-like stance. Their legs curve in the opposite direction, which they use to reach forward when snatching prey. They are usually brown or grey and have a significant leg span—often the same width as a human palm (5cm-8cm), although some specimens have been recorded at 15cm in width. Their bodies are 15mm-20mm, with an abdomen roughly equivalent to a human fingerprint.
The Hauntingly Charming Tarantulas of Australia, While terrors fill these beauties, the hauntingly splendid tarantulas of Australia, capture the minds of tourists and locals alike. Their appearance may be startling, but they do have a role in nature by feeding on insects and small invertebrates. If you are concerned that they might somewhat load up in your home, join yourself a First Aid course with Give first aid in Launceston . This broad training provides the confidence, skills, and knowledge required to deal with an emergency — such as a spider bite. Get ready and book your place now!
Myths and Realities: The Danger of Huntsman Spider Bite
- The bite doesn’t pose so much danger to humans, when compared to the venom of other spiders or spider wasps.
- The bite may be painful, but is generally not deadly or dangerous, and the venom of the Huntsman spider is not lethal to humans.
- In most cases, people have mild symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and itchiness that are manageable.
- The puncture wounds that result from the bite, and in some cases, secondary symptoms such as nausea or a headache.
- You should be able to get immediate relief just by applying a cold pack and getting medical attention if necessary.
- While allergic reactions are uncommon, they can occur and must be closely monitored.
- In very rare instances, anaphylaxis may be induced, but that is very unusual.
- In case the symptom still continues to trouble. It is best to attend first aid as soon as possible to keep away from complication.
- The bite needs to be monitored closely for signs of severe reactions and appropriate action must also be taken if any strong reaction occurs.
Understanding Huntsman Spider Behaviour
- Unlike web-building spiders, Huntsman spiders are active hunters.
- Free to roam indoors and outdoors in pursuit of prey such as insects and small creatures, rather than wait for the food to come to them.
- When they see humans, their first instinct is to run away. Most often, they’ll take flight instead of biting.
- Their rapid movement may surprise, but they are mostly nonaggressive.
- Huntsman spiders are naturally timid and will most often run away rather than confront you.
- They flit around quickly and erratically, but they are not prone to attack unless a person threaten them.
- Huntsman only flee when startled, so they are rarely seen.
How to Avoid the Huntsman Spider in Your Home
- Close entry points: Look for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and walls. Seal them so Huntsman spiders do not get in there and hide.
- Maintain a clean home: Dust and vacuum regularly, including corners and behind furniture, to remove cobwebs, dust and clutter where spiders love to hide.
- Minimize light outside: Bugs are attracted to light, which in turn attracts spiders. Leave outdoor lights turned off at night—they attract Huntsman spiders.
- Try natural repellents: Certain scents, such as citrus or eucalyptus, may help repel spiders. Use these natural repellents around your windows and doors.
- Use screens: Put fine mesh screens on windows and doors to keep spiders outside.
- Trim plants and bushes: Make sure that plants and bushes are trimmed well away from your house. Spiders like to use them as pathways into the house.
- Eliminate hiding places: Declutter your home, particularly in the basement, attic or storage areas where spiders are likely to take shelter.
- Regular inspections: Routine inspections in your house, especially in less frequented areas, to check if there are any Huntsman spiders or pests in your home.
