The answer depends on what you mean by dangerous.
Is a huntsman spider's bite life-threatening? No. Huntsman spiders are not deadly to humans.
However, it would be a mistake to assume that not being life-threatening means that huntsman spiders are safe. Huntsman spiders are venomous, and their bites can be painful to humans, causing localised swelling and pain. Some people may also experience headaches and nausea. However, the symptoms are generally mild.
Do Huntsman Spiders Bite?
Huntsman spiders are large and hairy, which gives them a frightening appearance. They also differ from many other spiders in that huntsman spiders do not spin webs to catch their prey. Instead, they are ambush predators. The first indication many people have of a huntsman spider problem in their homes is when a huntsman spider comes scurrying out of a hiding spot.
Can Huntsman Spiders Kill You?
Huntsman spiders are incapable of killing humans. However, it would be a mistake to assume that just because huntsman spiders aren't extremely dangerous, they're ok to handle. Poisonous huntsman spider bites can cause regional swelling and pain in humans. In short, they can be quite painful.
If bitten by a Huntsman, make sure to remain calm. Bandaging spider bites can cause more pain as it causes restrictions that keep venom in a limited space. Instead, use an ice pack to reduce swelling.
Is the huntsman spider Australia specific?
No. Huntsmen are certainly very common in Australia, but members of the Sparassidae family are found almost everywhere in the world – except some colder northern climates, like northern Russia and Canada.
The most effective way to eradicate dangerous spiders is by employing professional spider control measures.
Flick Pest Control offers a variety of residential pest control solutions that will help keep your home bug and spider free.
For more information, visit https://www.flick.com.au/blog/are-huntsman-spiders-dangerous/