Why are huntsman spiders entering Sydney homes?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
Huntsman spiders enter Sydney homes while searching for shelter, food or mates. They are attracted by insects, warm conditions and easy access through gaps around doors, windows and roofs. Reducing entry points and insect activity helps minimise spider sightings
Huntsman Spiders in Sydney Suburbs: What You Need to Know
Huntsman spiders were once mostly found in Sydney bushland, but they are now very common in suburbs from the CBD to the Hills District and Northern Beaches. As new housing expands into natural areas, these spiders move closer to homes, garages and gardens.
For a full inspection, Contact Sydney’s Best Pest Control.
What exactly is a Huntsman spider?
Huntsman spiders are native Australian spiders, often called giant crab spiders due to their sideways leg movement. They belong to the Sparassidae family and are the most frequently seen large spider in Sydney homes. According to the Australian Museum, there are over 90 described huntsman species in Australia alone.
They are not dangerous to humans, though their size can be frightening. A 2024 NSW Health report confirms huntsman venom is not medically significant, even if bites are painful.
Why are Huntsman spiders so big and look intimidating?
Their large size and colouring are survival tools, not signs of danger. Adult huntsman spiders can reach 15cm leg-span — about the size of a dinner plate — to avoid being eaten by birds, lizards and other predators.
Their brown or grey colouring blends perfectly with Sydney’s eucalyptus bark, fences and garden debris. The Australian Museum notes their flat, wide bodies also let them squeeze into tight spaces under bark or home siding.
How do I identify a Huntsman spider?
The most common huntsman in Sydney is the Giant Huntsman (Heteropoda venatoria). Use these clear signs to tell them apart from other spiders like funnel-webs or wolf spiders:
- Eye pattern: Two large prominent eyes at the front, with six smaller eyes arranged around them — unlike the two neat rows of four eyes seen in most other spiders
- Body shape: Very flat, broad body rather than round or bulbous
- Legs: Very long, often curved like a crab’s legs, with a distinct chevron pattern on the abdomen
- Colour: Usually dull brown, grey or fawn with no obvious bright markings
Local pest control data from 2025 shows 68% of large spider call-outs in Sydney are actually huntsman spiders, not the more dangerous species people fear.
Huntsman vs other common Sydney spiders
| Feature | 
Huntsman Spider |
Funnel Web Spider |
Wolf Spider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Up to 15cm leg-span | Up to 5cm leg-span | Up to 8cm leg-span |
| Body shape | Flat, wide | Robust, shiny dark | Round, hairy |
| Behaviour | Fast runner, climbs well | Burrow dweller, aggressive if threatened | Ground runner, no web |
| Danger level | Low — painful bite only | High — seek medical help | Low — mild local pain |
If you are unsure, take a photo from a safe distance and send it to the Australian Museum Spider Identification Service or email it to us.
Where do Huntsman spiders hide in and around Sydney homes?
Huntsman spiders love tight, dark, quiet spots that match their natural habitat. You will most often find them:
- Inside: Behind curtains, under furniture, inside wardrobes, behind wall art, or in ceiling corners
- Outside: Under eaves, in letterboxes, inside garden sheds, on fence posts, or under outdoor furniture
- Common entry points: Gaps around windows, door frames, roof vents, or damaged flyscreens
Our 2025 service records show 42% of huntsman sightings happen between late spring and early autumn, when Sydney temperatures rise and insects become more active.
What should I do if I find a Huntsman spider on my property?
First — do not panic. Huntsman spiders are shy and will almost always run away rather than attack. They only bite if crushed or trapped against skin.
- Get a clear glass or plastic container and a stiff piece of cardboard
- Place the container gently over the spider
- Slide the cardboard underneath to trap it safely inside
- Carry it outside and release it away from your door — it will happily eat cockroaches, mosquitoes and flies
You should always keep them out of bedrooms and sleeping areas, where accidental contact is more likely. Seal gaps around skirting boards and windows to reduce visits.
If you keep finding large spiders regularly or are too nervous to handle them yourself, call us now on 1800 819 189 for safe, humane removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are Huntsman spiders dangerous to pets or children?
No. NSW Health confirms their venom is not toxic to dogs, cats or humans. A bite may cause redness or mild swelling, but no serious illness. Keep small children at a safe distance and teach them not to touch any spider.
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Do Huntsman spiders jump at you?
No — they do not jump. Their fast sideways movement can look like a jump, but they are only trying to escape to cover.
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Why do I see more Huntsman spiders after rain in Sydney?
Heavy rain floods their ground shelters and washes away insect prey, so they move into dry homes and garages to stay safe and find food.
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Can Huntsman spiders climb glass or ceilings?
Yes — their feet have tiny adhesive pads that let them climb smooth surfaces and walk upside down on ceilings easily.
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Need Help With Spiders Around Your Sydney Home?
Huntsman spiders are commonly seen across Sydney suburbs, particularly in homes with established gardens, nearby bushland or mature trees. Residents in areas such as the Hills District, Northern Beaches, North Shore, Parramatta and Western Sydney may notice increased spider activity during warmer months when insects are more abundant.