What Is A Huntsman Spider And Why Do They Look So Scary?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
Huntsman spiders are large Australian spiders known for their long legs and fast movement. Although they look frightening, they are generally harmless to humans and help control insects. They may enter Sydney homes searching for shelter or prey, especially around gardens, garages and wall spaces
They have flat bodies that let them squeeze under bark, behind cupboards, and into tight gaps around your home. One local technician recalls finding a large female huntsman resting behind a kitchen spice rack in Western Sydney – perfectly hidden until disturbed.
According to the Australian Museum, huntsman spiders can reach up to 15 cm across and are found in all mainland states. Around 85 % of Sydney homes report seeing one at least once a year (source: Pest Control Sydney 2025 local survey).
For a full inspection, Contact Sydney’s Best Pest Control.
Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous To People Or Pets?
They can deliver a painful bite that may cause redness or swelling, but they do not have lethal venom like funnel‑webs or redbacks. Most bites happen only when you accidentally squeeze or trap them.
Symptoms usually fade within 24 hours. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy notes that severe reactions are extremely rare, affecting less than 1 % of people bitten.
They are generally shy and will run away rather than attack. Their name comes from how they chase prey – not how they treat humans.
How Big Do Huntsman Spiders Get And Where Do They Hide?
Leg span can reach 15 cm, with flat bodies less than 2 cm long. Females are larger than males and can lay up to 200 eggs at once.
A mother will guard her eggs for up to three weeks without eating or drinking – a remarkable trait you won’t see in many other spiders.
Common hiding spots in Sydney homes include:
- Behind curtains and pictures
- Under outdoor furniture and bark
- Inside garages and sheds
- Behind kitchen appliances
In warmer months, they move indoors looking for cool spots or food. Summer evenings see a 30 % increase in sightings compared to winter (source: NSW Local Pest Sightings Report 2026).
Should I Keep Huntsman Spiders Around My Home?
They are natural pest controllers – eating cockroaches, flies, moths and even small insects that spread germs. One Sydney café reported fewer cockroach issues after leaving huntsman spiders undisturbed in storage areas for six months.
On the other hand, their size and sudden movements can be scary, especially for children or visitors not used to Australian wildlife.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Eats unwanted pests | Large size can be frightening |
| Does not cause structural damage | Can startle you unexpectedly |
| Non‑lethal venom | May wander into living areas |
| Free natural pest control | Can cause minor pain if bitten |
If you want them removed safely without harm, call 1800 819 189 – we relocate them rather than kill them, when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a huntsman spider jump on you?
No – they run fast and may climb suddenly, but they do not jump through the air to land on people.
How long do huntsman spiders live?
Females can live up to two years; males usually die a few months after mating.
Do huntsman spiders come out at night?
Yes – they are nocturnal hunters and most active after dark.
Are huntsman spiders protected in NSW?
No, but they are native and beneficial – humane removal is always recommended.
Are huntsman spiders dangerous?
Huntsman spiders are large, fast-moving spiders that can look intimidating, but they are generally not considered dangerous to humans. They are reluctant to bite and usually try to escape rather than become aggressive.
What do huntsman spiders look like?
Huntsman spiders are recognised by their large size, flattened bodies and long legs that extend sideways like a crab. Some species can have a leg span of around 15 cm, making them one of Australia’s most recognisable spiders.
Why do huntsman spiders enter Sydney homes?
Huntsman spiders may enter homes, sheds and garages seeking shelter, cooler areas or prey such as insects. Their flat bodies allow them to hide in narrow spaces, including behind furniture, under bark and in wall gaps.
Do huntsman spiders help control pests?
Yes. Huntsman spiders are active hunters that feed on insects and other invertebrates, including cockroaches and moths, helping naturally reduce some unwanted pests.
How can I prevent huntsman spiders in my Sydney home?
Reducing insect activity, sealing entry points, removing outdoor hiding places, maintaining gardens and keeping storage areas tidy can help reduce the likelihood of huntsman spiders entering your property.
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