Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous?

In Australia, few creatures cause such mixed feelings as the huntsman spider. With their enormous size, lightning-fast movements, and habit of turning up in kitchens, bathrooms, or even cars, huntsman spiders are often feared. But should they be? Are they genuinely dangerous, or simply misunderstood?

This article takes an in-depth look at huntsman spiders: what they are, how they behave, whether they bite, and what to do if you find one in your home. By the end, you’ll know whether huntsman spiders deserve their scary reputation — and when it’s worth calling in professional pest control.

What Are Huntsman Spiders?

Huntsman spiders belong to the family Sparassidae, a group of large, fast-moving arachnids found throughout Australia. Unlike web-building spiders, huntsman spiders are active hunters. They rely on speed, agility, and camouflage to capture prey rather than constructing intricate webs.

There are more than 100 known species of huntsman spiders in Australia alone. The most famous is the Giant Huntsman (Heteropoda maxima), which can have a leg span of up to 30 centimetres — making it the largest spider by leg span in the world.

Despite their alarming appearance, huntsman spiders play an important role in controlling pests such as cockroaches, crickets, and moths. In many ways, they act as natural pest managers inside and around homes.

What Do Huntsman Spiders Look Like?

Huntsman spiders are unmistakable. Their most recognisable features include:

• Size – Body length can reach 4.5 cm, with a leg span often exceeding 15 cm.

• Flat body shape – This allows them to squeeze into tight spaces behind furniture, under bark, or inside cars.

• Leg positioning – Their long legs extend sideways like a crab, helping them move with incredible speed.

• Colouration – Usually brown, grey, or sandy with mottled patterns for camouflage.

• Hairy body and legs – Adding to their intimidating appearance, though these hairs are harmless.

Because of their flattened body and firm grip, huntsman spiders are notorious for appearing in unexpected places — such as behind sun visors in cars, causing more accidents through fright than through bites!

Do Huntsman Spiders Bite?

Yes, huntsman spiders can bite if they feel threatened or are accidentally pressed against the skin. Bites usually occur in situations such as:

• Putting on clothing, shoes, or gloves where a spider is hiding.
• Moving boxes, furniture, or garden items.
• Accidentally trapping a huntsman against the skin.

It’s important to note that huntsman spiders are not aggressive. They generally prefer to escape rather than bite, and most will flee quickly if disturbed.

How Dangerous Is a Huntsman Spider Bite?

A huntsman spider bite is not considered dangerous to humans. Their venom is weak and not toxic to people, unlike the venom of funnel-web or redback spiders.

Typical symptoms include:

• Localised pain at the bite site
• Mild swelling or redness
• Occasionally, headache or nausea (rare)

For most people, the discomfort is comparable to a bee sting. Serious medical complications are infrequent. There are no recorded fatalities from huntsman spider bites in Australia.

First Aid for a Huntsman Spider Bite

If bitten, basic first aid is usually sufficient:

1. Clean the wound – Wash with soap and water to prevent infection.

2. Reduce swelling – Apply a cold pack for 10–15 minutes at a time.

3. Pain relief – Over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can ease discomfort.

4. Monitor symptoms – Seek medical advice if pain becomes severe, swelling spreads, or if the person bitten is a child, an elderly person, or has known allergies.

Unlike dangerous spider bites, pressure immobilisation bandages are not required.

How to Get Rid of a Huntsman Spider?

While many Australians choose to leave huntsman spiders alone because of their pest-control benefits, not everyone is comfortable sharing their home with them. Fortunately, there are safe, humane ways to remove them:

• Container and cardboard method: Place a container over the spider, slide stiff cardboard underneath, and carefully release it outdoors.

• Encourage natural exit: Open doors and windows to allow the spider to leave on its own.

• Reduce entry points: Seal cracks, gaps, and window screens to limit how often they come inside.

It’s best to avoid insect sprays. Not only are they unnecessary, but they also introduce harmful chemicals into your home and kill an otherwise harmless spider.

Common Misconceptions About Huntsman Spiders

There are many myths about huntsman spiders that exaggerate their danger. Let’s set the record straight:

• “They are deadly.” – False. Huntsman spiders are not deadly and rarely bite humans.

• “They chase people.” – Huntsman spiders run fast, but they’re escaping, not attacking. Their speed can make it look like they’re running toward you.

• “They are pests.” – They help reduce cockroach and insect numbers.

• “Bigger means more venomous.” – Size doesn’t equal danger. Huntsman spiders look scary, but their venom is mild.

Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous to Pets?

For most cats and dogs, a huntsman spider bite is harmless. Pets may experience mild swelling if bitten, but it is not life-threatening. Pets are more at risk from other hazards, such as eating toxic insects (e.g., cane toads) than from huntsman spiders.

When to Call Pest Control

While huntsman spiders are beneficial in keeping insects under control, repeated sightings indoors may signal a larger pest problem. High cockroach populations, for example, can attract huntsman spiders inside.

If you’d prefer peace of mind, professional spider control can:

• Inspect your home for pest activity
• Provide spider-safe treatments
• Offer long-term prevention strategies

Pest Ex has helped thousands of Queensland households manage spiders and other common pests safely and effectively.

Conclusion

So, are huntsman spiders dangerous? The answer is no. While their size and speed make them intimidating, they are not a threat to humans or pets. At worst, a bite is mildly painful but not harmful.

Huntsman spiders are best thought of as natural pest controllers, quietly keeping cockroach and insect numbers down. Still, if their presence is causing anxiety or if you notice frequent spider activity indoors, Pest Ex offers safe, professional spider control services tailored to your needs. Contact Pest Ex today to arrange your spider control service.

With the right knowledge, you can appreciate huntsman spiders for the fascinating creatures they are — without the fear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are huntsman spiders dangerous to humans?
No, huntsman spiders are not dangerous. Their bites cause mild pain and swelling but are not toxic.

Do huntsman spiders bite at night?
They are nocturnal hunters, but they avoid people. Bites are rare and accidental.

Can huntsman spiders jump?
They don’t jump in the way some smaller spiders do. They move very quickly, often sideways, which can give the impression of jumping.

What’s the biggest huntsman spider ever recorded?
The Giant Huntsman, discovered in Laos, has a leg span of around 30 cm — roughly the size of a dinner plate.

Do huntsman spiders keep cockroaches away?
Yes. Huntsman spiders prey on cockroaches and other insects, helping reduce pest populations indoors.