How to Identify the Sydney Funnel-Web Spider

The Sydney funnel web spider is one of the most incredible spiders on the planet. It is not like most spiders in that it will defend itself ferociously, and has the tools to do so. It is vital that if you are in this spiders area, that you know how to identify and avoid it. Here is what you need to know.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lots of distance between you and the spider
• A strong stomach
• Knowledge of the spider

The Sydney Funnel Web Spider

1. Search for the Sydney funnel web with a plan of action in case of a bite. The Sydney funnel web spider is a large spider that packs a very dangerous bite. This spider has been known to kill a human being. Antivenin is available since 1980, and this has significantly helped to lessen the chances of dying from this spider bite, but it is still an extreme medical emergency if bitten.

2. Observe that the Sydney funnel web spider has two very sharp fangs that are capable of penetrating most clothing. Any time you get near or threaten this spider, it will raise up on its back legs in a ready position. From this position you can see the fangs clearly ready to strike, and even can sometimes see the venom dripping from them. The spider bites with a downward thrust from this position.

3. Avoid all large black spiders in Australia if you do not know for sure what they are. The Sydney funnel web spider is found in a 160 kilometer radius from the city of Sydney, Australia. Many other types of dangerous funnel web spiders are found throughout Australia, but the Sydney funnel web spider seems to be exclusive to Sydney. Any large black spider in Australia should be avoided just in case.

4. Observe that the Sydney funnel web spider is a very large spider by most standards. The female, which generally stays in the burrow is the largest at around 35 mm in length. The male is generally smaller, but much more dangerous. Still large at about 25mm in length, the male is particularly toxic to humans and is the most encountered. The male will go out hunting for females, and often wander into contact with humans. This, combined with the fact that the male is much more toxic, leads to bites.

5. Check the legs for the sex of the Sydney funnel web spider. The male has a little spur on the second leg on either side. They also have pointed feelers that are used to insert the sperm into the female. While smaller in stature than the female Sydney funnel web spider, the male Sydney funnel web spider is the real danger to humans.

Tips & Warnings

• The Sydney funnel web spider often will wander into the homes after a rain.
• The Sydney funnel web spider is found exclusively in Sydney.
• This spider can be deadly and should always be left alone.
• If you are bitten by a Sydney funnel web spider, get to the hospital regardless of how you feel.
• The male is much more toxic than the female.