The Notorious Perth Funnel-Web Spider
The Perth Funnel-Web Spider (Atrax robustus) is among the most deadly spiders on the planet. This spider, which can be found throughout Western Australia, especially around Perth, is known for its venomous bite and aggressive nature.
Key Facts About the Perth Funnel-Web Spider
Regarded as one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, its venom is potentially deadly if not treated.
Lives in funnel-shaped burrows lined with silk, silken trip-lines frequently leading to the entrance.
More dangerous males have stronger venom and are more likely to come into contact with people.
Venom is very toxic, but effective antivenin is available.
Appearance and Behaviour
The body of the Perth Funnel-Web Spider is glossy black to dark brown. Females can reach up to 35 mm in length, and males are approximately 25 mm. It has impressive chelicerae, a broad cephalothorax, a somewhat hairy abdomen, and spiny legs. The webs of these spiders are efficient at entrapping their prey, mostly consisting of other arthropods. They can display surprising aggression when disturbed or backed into a corner; they raise their fangs persistently as a warning to potential predators.
They build funnel-like burrows under logs, rocks or leaf litter and ambush courageous prey that dares to come close. They are venomous, and their bite is capable of killing humans, specifically children.
Habitat and Distribution
The Perth Funnel-Web Spider is known to inhabit damp, sheltered places. They can be found in:
Gardens and bushlands around Perth
Beneath logs, stones and leaves
Moist areas in yards or parks
They are not as common as house spiders, and may only be found in humid conditions in suburban gardens.
What Happens If Bitten?
A Perth Funnel-Web Spider bite is a life-threatening medical emergency. The symptoms can come on suddenly, and they include:
Severe pain, swelling and fang marks
Nausea, vomiting, sweating, and confusion
Tachycardia with hypertension and respiratory symptoms
Immediate treatment includes the application of a pressure immobilisation bandage, splinting, and obtaining medical care for the administration of antivenom. But these days, fatalities are rare, thanks to antivenom.
Reproduction and Lifespan
Mating occurs mainly in spring. Males temporarily vacate their burrows, armed with mating spurs on their legs to locate and attract a female. The females deposit up to 100 eggs in silk cocoons and stand watch over them. The spiderlings live in the maternal burrow for several weeks before dispersal.
Females can live to be 20 years old, and males typically have a lifespan of 5–10 years. This has probably been a long-lived species, allowing them to keep stable populations in convenient locations around Perth.
Diet and Ecological Role
They eat insects, smaller invertebrates and even small vertebrates. Their voracious hunting helps keep local insect numbers in check, helping to maintain the natural balance of ecosystems.
How to Reduce Spider Presence
Seal gaps in walls and windows to prevent entry.
Remove clutter and debris from gardens.
Monitor areas like sheds, steps, and laundry rooms.
Recognize burrows with silk entrances and trip-lines.
Seek professional pest control if necessary.
By following these measures, residents can reduce encounters with these dangerous spiders.
Ark Termite Treatment The Vines offers all pest control services in The Vines, Perth, and surrounding areas. Contact us at (08) 6186 7468 or visit our website: https://arktermitetreatment.com.au/ for professional and reliable pest management services.
