As the Australian summer season approaches, residents are being cautioned about the increased activity of a dangerous spider species, the funnel-web spider. Known as one of the deadliest arachnids in the country, the funnel-web spider is entering its mating season. The recent rainfall and warmer temperatures provide the perfect conditions for these spiders to venture into residential areas in search of a mate.
The Australian Reptile Park has issued a warning about the potentially fatal bite of the funnel-web spider. Without immediate medical attention, a bite from this venomous spider can prove deadly within just 15 minutes. The species has been linked to at least 13 deaths. However, since the introduction of an antivenom in 1981, there have been no reported fatalities from the spider’s bite.
The park is urging residents who come across funnel-web spiders to collect them and bring them to the Australian Reptile Park. The collected spiders are then used to produce antivenom, a crucial treatment for individuals bitten by these eight-legged creatures.
Emma Teni, a spider keeper at the Australian Reptile Park, highlighted the importance of spider donations during the breeding season. She explained that male funnel-web spiders have short lifespans and approximately 150 spiders are needed to produce a single vial of antivenom. Therefore, public participation is vital to ensure a sufficient venom supply to meet demand.
Residents are advised to be on the lookout for spiders in cool, dark areas, such as shoes, laundry piles, pools, and yard debris. The park also warns people to check for egg sacs when they find a funnel-web spider.
Teni emphasized the importance of safely collecting egg sacs as well, as they can provide a significant supply of healthy young spiders for antivenom production. If a funnel-web spider is discovered, the park provides detailed instructions on how to safely capture it for donation. The process involves using a large, wide-mouthed plastic or glass jar and a long spoon to gently guide the spider into the jar. Damp soil should be added to the jar before sealing it tightly.
In addition to encouraging spider donations, the park is also educating residents on what to do if bitten by a funnel-web spider. The advice includes remaining calm, tightly bandaging the area around the bite, and seeking immediate medical attention. The Australian Reptile Park has established several drop-off locations for funnel-web spider donations along Australia’s eastern coast.