The Australian huntsman spider is one of the largest and fastest arachnids found in Australia. Known for its long legs, incredible speed, and unique sideways movement, this spider is often feared due to its size.
However, despite its intimidating look, it is harmless to humans and plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations. These spiders are commonly found in warm, sheltered areas such as tree bark, rock crevices, and even inside homes.
Giant Australian Huntsman Spider: How Big Can They Get?
The giant Australian huntsman spider is among the largest spiders in the world, with a leg span reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm). Although their bodies are relatively small, their long legs make them appear massive. Unlike web-building spiders, huntsman spiders use speed and agility to catch prey. Their ability to move quickly, even sideways, makes them excellent hunters.
Huntsman spiders are often confused with tarantulas due to their size, but they are not closely related. While tarantulas are slow-moving and rely on venom, huntsman spiders depend on speed to catch their prey. These spiders are non-aggressive and will usually flee rather than bite if disturbed.
Australian Giant Huntsman Spider: Where Do They Live?
The Australian giant huntsman spider prefers warm, sheltered locations. These spiders are commonly found under tree bark, in rock crevices, and in sheds or garages. They can even be found inside homes, where they hide behind furniture or in dark corners. Unlike many other spider species, huntsman spiders do not build webs. Instead, they actively hunt for insects such as cockroaches, moths, and mosquitoes.
Since they thrive in warm climates, they are most commonly found in Australia, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales. However, they have also been spotted in other tropical and subtropical regions.
Biggest Australian Huntsman Spider Ever Recorded
The biggest Australian huntsman spider ever recorded had a leg span of nearly 12 inches (30 cm). This enormous spider was found in Queensland and quickly gained attention for its massive size. Photos of the spider went viral, shocking people worldwide.
Despite its impressive size, the huntsman spider remains harmless to humans. These spiders prefer to avoid conflict and are more likely to run away than attack. They are excellent at keeping insect populations under control, making them beneficial in households.
Largest Australian Huntsman Spider: How It Compares to Other Spiders
The largest Australian huntsman spider is often mistaken for a tarantula, but they are very different species. While tarantulas rely on venom to immobilize prey, huntsman spiders use their speed and strong front legs to capture insects. Their long legs make them appear even bigger than they actually are.
Interestingly, the huntsman spider holds the title of the world’s largest spider by leg span, surpassing even the Goliath birdeater tarantula in terms of sheer size. However, the Goliath birdeater is heavier and has a bulkier body.
Is the Australian Huntsman Spider Poisonous?
Many people ask, is the Australian huntsman spider poisonous? The answer is no. Although it can bite if provoked, its venom is not harmful to humans. A bite from a huntsman spider may cause mild irritation, swelling, and redness, similar to a bee sting. However, there are no known cases of severe reactions or fatalities from a huntsman spider bite.
Huntsman spiders are non-aggressive and rarely bite humans unless they feel threatened. If left alone, they pose no risk and can even be beneficial by reducing insect populations.
Australian Huntsman Spider in Houses: Why Do They Enter Homes?
It’s common to find the Australian huntsman spider in houses, especially during hot weather or when searching for food. These spiders are attracted to warm, dark places such as behind furniture, inside cupboards, or even inside cars.
While their sudden appearance can be alarming, they help keep homes free from pests like cockroaches and mosquitoes. If you find a huntsman spider in your house, it is best to gently guide it outside rather than kill it, as it plays an essential role in maintaining ecological balance.
How Fast Can an Australian Huntsman Spider Run?
The Australian huntsman spider running speed is remarkable. It is one of the fastest spiders in the world, capable of covering large distances quickly. This speed helps it escape predators and catch prey with ease. Unlike web-building spiders, which wait for insects to get trapped, the huntsman actively chases its prey using its speed and agility.
Australian Huntsman Spider vs. Other Australian Spiders
The huntsman spider Australian spiders big category includes several species, but they are different from other well-known Australian spiders. The Sydney funnel-web spider, for example, is highly venomous and can deliver a deadly bite, while huntsman spiders are completely harmless.
Unlike the redback spider, which builds intricate webs, the huntsman does not rely on webs for hunting. Instead, it actively searches for food. While its large size may make it look more dangerous than a redback or funnel-web, it is actually one of the least harmful spiders in Australia.
Australian Huntsman Spider Myths and Facts
There are many myths about the huntsman spider. One of the most common is that they are aggressive and dangerous to humans. In reality, they are shy and will avoid confrontation. Another myth is that they are venomous, but their venom is mild and not harmful to humans.
One fascinating fact about huntsman spiders is that they are excellent mothers. Female huntsman spiders lay eggs in a protective silk sac and guard them until they hatch. Unlike many other spider species, they do not abandon their young immediately after birth.
Conclusion
The Australian huntsman spider may look intimidating, but it is a harmless and beneficial species. With its large size, speed, and hunting abilities, it helps control insect populations in homes and natural environments. While its sudden appearance might startle people, it poses no real threat and should be appreciated for the role it plays in nature.
