Spiders – The Stealthy Predators of Australian Homes & Gardens

Spiders are fascinating yet often feared creatures that play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. As members of the Arachnida class, spiders are not insects but rather belong to the same group as scorpions, ticks, and mites. They are distinguished by their eight legs, two main body segments (the cephalothorax and abdomen), and fangs that inject venom into prey.

Australia is home to over 2,000 species of spiders, ranging from harmless web-weavers to highly venomous species capable of causing serious medical concerns. While most spiders prefer to remain hidden and pose little to no threat to humans, some species—such as the Sydney Funnel-Web Spider and the Red-Back Spider—can deliver dangerous bites that require immediate medical attention.

At BUGZOFF Pest Control, we provide effective spider management solutions to keep your home, business, and outdoor spaces safe from infestations while preserving the ecological balance these creatures contribute to.

Understanding Spiders in Australia

Habitats & Behaviour

Spiders are highly adaptable and can be found in forests, deserts, urban areas, and inside homes. They generally fall into two categories:

1. Web-Spinning Spiders – These spiders construct intricate webs to capture flying insects, commonly found in gardens, on ceilings, and around window frames.
2. Hunting Spiders – These spiders actively chase or ambush their prey and are often found on walls, under bark, in crevices, and inside homes.

Are Spiders Dangerous?

• Most spiders are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role in controlling insect populations.
• Some species, however, can deliver painful or medically significant bites that may require urgent medical attention.
• Spider bites do not always require anti-venom, but it is crucial to identify the species responsible and monitor symptoms carefully.

Commonly Found Spiders in Australia

Australia is home to both harmless and venomous spider species, classified into two major families:

1. Araneomorphae – Common Household & Garden Spiders

This group includes web-spinners and hunting spiders that are widely distributed across urban and rural areas.

Black & Grey House Spiders (Badumna spp.)

• Found in corners, window frames, fences, and sheds.
• Create irregular funnel-shaped webs to trap prey.
• Bites cause localised pain and swelling but are not fatal.

Garden Orb-Weaving Spiders (Eriophora spp.)

• Large, web-spinning spiders that construct circular webs between shrubs and buildings.
• Completely harmless to humans; rarely bite unless provoked.

Huntsman Spiders (Sparassidae family)

• Fast-moving, large spiders that often enter homes and vehicles.
• Despite their intimidating size, they are non-aggressive and beneficial in controlling pests.
• Bites may cause swelling and mild pain but are not medically dangerous.

Red-Back Spiders (Latrodectus hasseltii) – Highly Venomous

• Small black spiders with a distinctive red stripe on their abdomen.
• Found in dark, dry areas like sheds, letterboxes, under outdoor furniture, and barbecues.
• Bites can cause nausea, vomiting, fever, and paralysis—seek medical attention immediately.

Saint Andrew’s Cross Spiders (Argiope keyserlingi)

• Recognisable by their X-shaped web-weaving posture.
• Frequently seen in gardens and bushland.
• Completely harmless to humans.

White-Tailed Spiders (Lampona spp.)

• Identified by their cigar-shaped bodies with a white tip on the abdomen.
• Prefer cool, moist environments like gardens and bathrooms.
• Bites can cause localised pain, swelling, and blistering, sometimes associated with skin ulcers.

Wolf Spiders (Lycosidae family)

• Fast-running hunting spiders, often seen on lawns, gardens, and driveways.
• Some burrow into the ground, while others actively chase down prey.
• Bites are painful but not medically dangerous.

2. Mygalomorphae – Burrowing Spiders & Highly Venomous Species

These spiders have large fangs and live in burrows, with some species known for their dangerous venom.

Australian Tarantulas (Whistling Spiders)

• Found in rainforests, deserts, and bushland.
• Can grow up to 16 cm in leg span.
• Venom is not lethal to humans, but bites can be painful and cause nausea.

Funnel-Web Spiders (Atracidae family) – Highly Venomous

• The Sydney Funnel-Web Spider is among the most dangerous spiders in the world.
• Males wander into homes, hiding in shoes, towels, and gardens.
• Bites require urgent anti-venom treatment due to highly toxic venom.

Mouse Spiders (Missulena spp.)

• Large spiders with powerful fangs.
• Venom can be medically significant, but bites are rare.
• Found in burrows, particularly near rivers and coastal regions.

Trapdoor Spiders (Ctenizidae family)

• Ground-dwelling spiders that build silk-lined burrows with trapdoor lids.
• Non-aggressive and rarely bite.
• Found in bushland and gardens.

Signs of a Spider Infestation

• Visible spiders – Seeing multiple spiders around your home or garden may indicate a breeding population.
• Web clusters – Large concentrations of webs in corners, ceilings, and gardens suggest high spider activity.
• Egg sacs – Spider egg sacs contain hundreds of spiderlings and should be removed carefully.

Problems Caused by Spiders

1. Venomous Bites & Health Risks

• Some spiders can deliver painful and toxic bites, requiring medical intervention.
• Allergic reactions to spider venom can cause swelling, dizziness, and nausea.

2. Infestation Concerns

• Large spider populations may indicate an underlying pest issue (such as excess insects).
• Frequent sightings indoors can be stressful for homeowners.

3. Psychological Fear & Anxiety

• Many individuals suffer from arachnophobia (fear of spiders), leading to stress and discomfort when infestations occur.

How to Prevent & Control Spiders

1. Seal Entry Points

• Close gaps around doors, windows, and vents to prevent spiders from entering.
• Repair cracks and crevices in walls and ceilings.

2. Keep Your Home Clean & Clutter-Free

• Regularly vacuum corners, ceilings, and storage areas where spiders may hide.
• Reduce clutter to eliminate potential spider hiding spots.

3. Reduce Insect Populations

• Since spiders feed on insects, controlling their food source reduces infestations.
• Install fly screens on windows and doors to prevent insects from entering.

4. Use Natural Repellents

• Essential oils like peppermint, citrus, and tea tree oil can deter spiders.
• Placing chestnuts or vinegar-soaked cotton balls around entry points may also help.

5. Professional Spider Control

• DIY treatments may provide temporary relief, but for large infestations, professional pest control is necessary.

How BUGZOFF Can Help with Spider Control

At BUGZOFF Pest Control, we provide specialised spider treatments to eliminate infestations, reduce populations, and prevent future outbreaks.

Our Spider Control Services Include:

• Thorough property inspections to identify high-risk areas.
• Safe, targeted treatments for both web-spinning and hunting spiders.
• Preventative solutions to keep spiders from returning.
• Ongoing monitoring and maintenance programs.

Don’t Let Spiders Take Over – Call BUGZOFF Today!

Spiders can be beneficial, but infestations require professional control to ensure safety.

Contact BUGZOFF today for an expert spider inspection and customised treatment plan!