australian wandering spider bite

Can a Bite From a Brazilian Wandering Spider Cause a Four-Hour Erection?

In many cases, the erection is merely an early warning before the complete shutdown of multiple organ systems., alex kasprak, published aug. 16, 2023.

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On Aug. 14, 2023, the account First Doctor  posted what it asserted to be an "exclusive" finding on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter:

While far from an exclusive — or even a remotely new — finding, the two claims in the tweet were factual. A bite from Phoneutria nigriventer , commonly known as the Brazilian wandering spider, can indeed result in a long-lasting and painful erection, a condition known as priapism when it lasts more than four hours . 

While the toxicity and high risk of death posed by the chemical thought to be responsible for the erections makes its use as a potential erectile dysfunction (ED) therapy challenging, if not literally impossible , it has been used to develop similar chemicals that may have therapeutic potential. 

Phoneutria nigriventer 's erection-causing effects have been known to science since the 1970s. The 1971 book "Venemous Animals and Their Venom" described priapistic effects of this spider's bite on mice and dogs. The authors also included anecdotal reports from humans who had been bitten:

A pattern which resembles that of dog envenomation is also noticed in humans bitten by Phoneutria nigriventer: local unbearable pain, salivation, visual disturbances, sweating, prostration, priapism, and death. 

Research published in 2008 identified the chemical within the venom likely responsible for the erections — a peptide now named PnTx2-6. "[Pn]Tx2-6 enhanced erectile function in [...] rats, via the [Nitrous Oxide] NO pathway," the study reported. "Our studies suggest that [Pn]Tx2-6 could be important for development of new pharmacological agents for treatment of erectile dysfunction."

The interest in this toxin as a treatment for ED stems, in part, because it operates in a completely different way than common ED treatments like Viagra, as reported in 2011 by NBC News:

Viagra, Levitra and other ED drugs on the market work by inhibiting an enzyme called PDE5. To get an erection, a man's body must release nitric oxide, which relaxes the smooth muscle around the arteries of the penis, allowing for his blood vessels to dilate. The nitric oxide is a first step in a series of chemical reactions that allow this muscle relaxation to take place.  One step in the series is cGMP, a signaling molecule that acts to keep the muscles relaxed. PDE5 degrades cGMP. That's a good thing for ensuring that erections don't last forever, but too much PDE5 can mean an erection doesn't happen at all. By blocking the enzyme, PDE5 inhibitors solve the problem. The spider toxin works differently. Instead of affecting PDE5, the compound seems to trigger nitric oxide release, acting directly to relax the smooth muscles. Because about 30 percent of patients don't respond to PDE5 inhibitors, the toxin could provide an alternative to ED treatments currently on the market, [Study author Kenia] Nunes said." 

In 2022, the same research group responsible for identifying PnTx2-6 published a paper arguing, in part, that due to the extreme pain and high toxicity of the chemical, its "therapeutic use is impossible," but that it is "an excellent pharmacological tool for studying erectile function." That study synthesized a new peptide, PnPP-19, based on the toxic original.

Based on studies performed on laboratory mice, PnPP-19 appears to have the potential to cause erections without the pain or toxicity of the spider venom:

This synthetic peptide also potentiates erectile function via NO/cGMP, but it [...] displays nontoxic properties in animals even at high doses. PnPP-19 effectively potentiates erectile function not only after subcutaneous or intravenous administration but also following topical application.

The assertions in First Doctor's post were factual because the priapism caused by Phoneutria nigriventer's bites have been well-documented and well-studied for decades and because the active ingredients in that venom have been used to investigate new ED therapies. As such, we rate the claim as "True."

Bücherl, Wolfgang, and Eleanor E. Buckley. Venomous Animals and Their Venoms: Venomous Invertebrates. Elsevier, 2013.

Nunes, K. P., et al. "Tx2-6 Toxin of the Phoneutria Nigriventer Spider Potentiates Rat Erectile Function." Toxicon : Official Journal of the International Society on Toxinology, vol. 51, no. 7, June 2008, pp. 1197–206. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2008.02.010.

Silberman, Michael, et al. "Priapism." StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 2023. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459178/.

Silva, Carolina Nunes da, et al. "From the PnTx2-6 Toxin to the PnPP-19 Engineered Peptide: Therapeutic Potential in Erectile Dysfunction, Nociception, and Glaucoma." Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, vol. 9, 2022. Frontiers, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmolb.2022.831823.

"Spider Venom Shows Promise for Treating Erectile Dysfunction." NBC News, 7 Sept. 2012, http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/spider-venom-shows-promise-treating-erectile-dysfunction-flna1B5794477.  

By Alex Kasprak

Alex Kasprak is an investigative journalist and science writer reporting on scientific misinformation, online fraud, and financial crime.

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Myth: deadly australian/brazilian spiders, myth: but there are really deadly spiders in australia and brazil..

Fact:  The  previous myth  page, where I said that no spider species anywhere can properly be called "deadly," generated more comments than any other on the site. Most were from Australians who were certain their country at least had truly deadly spiders, including the Sydney Funnelweb Spider,  Atrax robustus,  and the Redback Spider,  Latrodectus hasselti . Some also mentioned White-tailed Spiders, genus  Lampona . Some comments were from Brazilians who put forward their  Phoneutria  wandering spiders as the world's deadliest.

To start with, these people had misunderstood what I said. I  never  claimed that no human ever died from spider venom. What I said was, there is no species whose bite kills much more than 5% of its victims, nor any spider that kills within minutes, like in the movies. This applies just as strongly to Australia and Brazil as to the USA.

According to the Australian Museum, the number of human deaths from authentic spider bites of  any  kind in Australia since 1979 has been zero. A recent published medical study followed 750 genuine Australian spider bite cases with identified spiders over 27 months (1999-2001). Only 44 bites (6%, mostly redback spider bites) had significant effects. Only 6 redback bites and 1  Atrax  bite were serious enough to need antivenom. In no case was there any sign of allergic response to spider venom, and I have only seen one such case in North America in 44 years.

Atrax robustus , the Sydney Funnelweb Spider, is often publicized as the "world's deadliest."  Authentic medical information  suggests otherwise. There have been no deaths (out of 30-40 bites per year) since antivenom was introduced in 1980. During the 53 year period 1927-1979 there were 13 or 14 known deaths, which would be a death rate of  under one percent!  Although one child died in 15 minutes, adult fatalities typically took 2-3 days. 90% of Atrax bites are judged not serious enough to need antivenom.

Most serious spider bites in Australia are from the Redback,  Latrodectus hasselti , a close relative of American black widows with very similar venom and effects. The recent study mentioned above tallied 56 genuine redback bites. Only 37 (66%) had any serious effects, and only 6 (11%) were serious enough to need antivenom. There have been no redback-caused human deaths in several decades.

White-tailed spiders,  Lampona cylindrata  and relatives, have recently been blamed for Australian cases of severe necrotic lesions, but this connection was not based on enough evidence. The same authors who did the 750-bite study mentioned above, gathered a further 130 cases (aged 3-76 years) bitten by identified  Lampona  spiders. Local pain and itching were the only effects. No one developed any lesion or ulcer. White-tailed spiders are  not guilty  of doing any serious harm to humans;  this page  has more details.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders ( aranhas armadeiras ),  Phoneutria nigriventer ,  P. keyserlingi  and  P. fera , are sometimes said to have the world's most toxic spider venom – probably based on a well publicized study where mice were killed by intravenous injection of as little as 0.006 mg of venom. Since I'm a man, not a mouse, that doesn't worry me much. Authoritative sources state that over 7,000 authentic cases of human bites from these spiders have been recorded, with only around 10 known deaths, and about 2% of cases serious enough to need antivenom. So despite the surprisingly large number of bites, this spider is not exactly public enemy number one either.

Most medical conditions blamed on spiders by physicians lack confirmation that any actual spider was involved in the case. Spider bites of all kinds are rare events (as opposed to other bites and medical conditions that get wrongly blamed on spiders). Although it is possible for a spider bite to cause death, that is a very unlikely outcome and does not happen in enough cases to justify calling any spider "deadly."

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"Everything that 'everybody knows' about spiders is wrong!" — Rod Crawford sets the record straight with  Spider Myths .

Female Sydney Funnelweb Spider,  Atrax robustus . Human deaths from bite are rare. Photo:  Fir0002  from Wikimedia Commons, under  GNU Free Documentation License

Female White-Tailed Spider,  Lampona sp . Now proven 100% harmless! Photo: David McClenaghan, CSIRO from Wikimedia Commons

Female Brazilian Wandering Spider,  Phoneutria nigriventer . Human deaths from bite are rare. Photo: Paraná State Govt., Brazil

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Signs and Symptoms of Spider Bites

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Spiders are normally not aggressive and do not attack humans or bite them at random. Most spiders only bite when they are cornered, trapped, or contacted by a person—such as when you reach into a dark corner or slide on a pair of boots. This can cause them to act in self-defense and bite you.

If you are bitten by a spider, symptoms may include pain, swelling, or itchiness. More serious symptoms can occur if a venomous spider (such as a black widow) bites you.

Common Symptoms 

Very few spiders in the United States cause serious illness or even death. Most spider bites will often resemble a bee sting. Unless you saw the spider bite you, it is very hard to distinguish a spider bite from an insect sting . Spider bite symptoms include the following:

• Pain at the site
• Blood blister

A venomous spider bite might lead to more severe symptoms.

Brown Recluse Spider Bite Symptoms 

The brown recluse spider is not aggressive, but it has a dangerous bite. People usually get bitten by this spider when they reach into a dark box in the basement or put on shoes or clothes where the spider is hiding.

The venom from the brown recluse spider is complex and highly poisonous. A bite may initially look like a typical insect bite. It is not until the venom spreads that severe symptoms begin to develop, especially as it starts to destroy surrounding tissues.

In addition to a significant wound, people can develop a fever, chills , and nausea. As time passes, their wound will become larger and darker in color due to necrosis (tissue death). It may develop an ulcer and turn black. The venom might also spread to fat and muscles and become infected.

This infection can even spread to the rest of your body and may become life-threatening. For instance, people may experience:

• Edema (swelling)
• Inflammation
• Hemorrhage (bleeding)
• Damage to the vessel wall
• Thrombosis ( blood clots )

In severe cases, acute kidney failure , stroke, and rhabdomyolysis (where the muscles break down) have also been reported.

While anti-venom is available, it is hard to diagnose a brown recluse spider accurately. That's because when you first get bit, you might not feel anything and in most cases, you don't see the spider that bit you. Plus, other conditions like bacterial or fungal infections or blood circulation issues can mimic a spider bite, which can often lead to a misdiagnosis.

Black Widow Spider Bite Symptoms 

Black widow bites are not usually fatal, but they are extremely dangerous, especially to young children and older adults. Bites often occur while camping, hiking, gardening , or working in the garage. After just minutes, the area next to where the bite occurred may become painful, extremely red, swollen, or develop a cyst . Fang marks may even be evident.

As the venom spreads, you might develop latrodectism —an illness caused by the bite of Latrodectus spiders. This condition can cause:

• Muscle pain, cramping, or rigidity
• Abdominal tenderness
• Rapid heart rate
• Shallow breathing
• Systemic (body-wide) pain
• Elevated blood pressure

In severe cases, a black widow bite might also cause rhabdomyolysis (where the muscles break down) and myocarditis (heart inflammation). Sometimes the pain from a black widow bite is so painful it can be mistaken for appendicitis or a heart attack .

Fortunately, most people recover from a black widow bite without needing to use anti-venom. In fact, the risk of death is only about 1% or less—though the risk is much higher in kids and older adults.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite Symptoms 

Brazilian wandering spiders—also known as armed spiders or banana spiders—have the largest venom glands of any spider. When these spiders were "milked" during one study, they produced as much as 8 milligrams (mg) of venom. This is a lot considering that 0.10 mg is enough to endanger human life.

The venom of this spider is a complex mixture of toxins, proteins, and peptides, which affects the ion channels and chemical receptors in your neuromuscular systems. This can cause a wide range of symptoms including:

• Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
• Abdominal cramping
• Blurred vision
• Convulsions
• Excessive sweating and salivation

The most notable reaction is that this spider's venom can cause painful and long-lasting erections in some people. For this reason, scientists have been conducting animal studies to determine if the spider's venom could be used to treat erectile dysfunction .

These spiders are rarely seen in the U.S., though some people speculate that they sometimes arrive in banana shipments. In Brazil, you can treat moderate to severe bites with anti-venom. In other milder cases, your treatment will depend on the exact symptoms you're experiencing.

Funnel-Web Spider Bite Symptoms

Funnel-web spiders, which are primarily found in Australia, are one of the most dangerous spiders in the world. These spiders are equipped with powerful, sharp fangs that can penetrate fingernails and even some shoes. These spiders are also one of the few types that are aggressive toward people.

A bite from a funnel-web spider is potentially life-threatening, so prompt anti-venom treatment is essential. Small kids and people with underlying medical conditions are particularly at risk of death or complications.

If you get bit by a funnel-web spider, you may experience:

• Excessive sweating
• Muscle twitches
• Numbness in your mouth
• Nausea or vomiting
• Extra salivation
• Watery eyes

These bites can even cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate and can sometimes lead to pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs), particularly in children.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider 

See a healthcare provider if you get bitten by a venomous spider or are experiencing symptoms of a spider bite, This way, they can treat you for the bite before the venom starts to break down your skin or cause other serious complications. That said, most people will not know what type of spider bit them and will need to watch the area closely and monitor their symptoms. If your symptoms worsen, this is a good time to reach out for medical support.

You may require emergency medical attention. It's best to see a healthcare provider right away if you notice redness spreading out from the bite, fluid or pus draining from the area, an increase in pain, or discoloration in your skin. If you experience any of the following symptoms, get emergency medical treatment:

• Bullseye pattern or black scab on the skin
• Trouble breathing
• Swollen or droopy eyelids
• Rigid shoulder, chest, back, or stomach muscles

Questions to Ask Your Provider

When seeing a healthcare provider for a spider bite, come prepared with questions—especially because it's easy to forget what you want to ask when you are in pain. Here are some things to consider asking:

• Is this a spider bite or something else?
• What treatments are available to make my redness and swelling go away?
• What symptoms should I watch for or be concerned about?
• How long will my symptoms last?
• Will there be any lasting damage from this bite?

A Quick Review 

Most spiders do not attack people or bite them randomly. If you do get bitten by a spider, symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most people will experience mild pain, redness, itchiness, and swelling.

Symptoms progressing to something more significant like excessive sweating, weakness, dizziness, heart rate changes, and vision changes require immediate medical care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Although spider bites rarely cause serious problems, bites from a venomous spider like a brown recluse or black widow can cause you to feel sick.

Spider bites by venomous spiders need to be treated right away. These types of bites can cause serious complications and even lead to death.

If you don't know what type of spider bit you, keep an eye on the area and monitor your symptoms. Increasing pain and worsening symptoms are the first indicators that a bite is serious and requires evaluation.

Rahmani F, Banan Khojasteh SM, Ebrahimi Bakhtavar H, Rahmani F, Shahsavari Nia K, Faridaalaee G. Poisonous spiders: Bites, symptoms, and treatment; An educational review . Emerg (Tehran) . 2014;2(2):54-8

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Venomous spiders .

American Red Cross. Spider bites .

National Capital Poison Center. Brown recluse spider bites .

National Capital Poison Center. Black widow spider bites can be dangerous .

Williams M, Sehgal N, Nappe TM. Black widow spider toxicity . In: StatPearls . StatPearls Publishing; 2024.

Guinness World Records. Largest spider venom glands .

Cardoso FC, Walker AA, King GF, Gomez MV. Holistic profiling of the venom from the Brazilian wandering spider  Phoneutria nigriventer  by combining high-throughput ion channel screens with venomics .  Front Mol Biosci . 2023;10:1069764. doi:10.3389/fmolb.2023.1069764

Natural History Museum. Phoneutria— toxicity .

Nunes KP, Toque HA, Borges MH, Richardson M, Webb RC, de Lima ME. Erectile function is improved in aged rats by PnTx2-6, a toxin from Phoneutria nigriventer spider venom .  J Sex Med . 2012;9(10):2574-2581. doi:10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02878.x

Britannica. Phoneutria nigriventer .

Binstead JT, Nappe TM. Funnel web spider toxicity . In: StatPearls . StatPearls Publishing; 2024.

National Pest Management Association. Spider bites: Symptoms, signs and spider bite treatment .

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Brazilian Wandering Spider facts

Last updated on July 12th, 2023 at 01:48 pm

When you think of deadly spiders, there are a few names that spring to mind – but none more infamous than the Brazilian Wandering Spider. This species is reputed to have the most toxic venom of any spider, having a bite which causes horrendous side-effects like priapism and convulsions.

What you may not know, however, is that the Brazilian Wandering Spider name is actually used for a few species. The most common, and perhaps the most medically significant in the group are Phoneutria nigriventer and Phoneutria fera .

In this post, I’ll tell you more about these two species, from where they live, to what they eat. To keep things simple, I’ll just refer to them both as the “Brazilian Wandering Spider”, given how similar they are. Let’s dive in…

Quick Facts

To kick things off, here are some fascinating factoids about the Brazilian Wandering Spider:

• They belong to the genus ‘Phoneutria’, which translates to ‘murderess’ in Greek.
• They are known for their highly potent venom.
• Wandering Spiders are nocturnal creatures.
• They are also known as ‘banana spiders’ due to their tendency to hide in banana plants.
• They are not web-weavers but active hunters. This is called ‘cursorial’ hunting.
• It’s considered one of the most dangerous spiders in the world.

Other Common Names

The Brazilian Wandering Spider goes by several other names. The most common is the ‘banana spider’, thanks to their notorious habit of stowing away in banana shipments. In their native Portuguese, they’re known as ‘aranhas-armadeiras’ , translating to ‘armed spiders’ – a reference to their aggressive defense posture.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Venom

Possessing one of the most potent venoms among spiders, the Brazilian Wandering Spider’s bite is a cause for concern. Its venom is a complex cocktail of toxins, proteins, and peptides.

The main component that gets everyone’s attention is the neurotoxin, called PhTx3 , which can interfere with the functioning of our nervous system, leading to a variety of symptoms.

What’s the Benefit of Having Such Strong Venom?

With venom potent enough to kill a human, one might wonder why this spider needs such a powerful weapon. The answer lies in its lifestyle.

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are active hunters and their venom is primarily used to incapacitate prey quickly. The venom’s potency also serves as an effective deterrent against potential predators.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Deaths

Despite the notorious reputation, actual deaths from Brazilian Wandering Spider bites are rare. This is largely due to the rapid medical attention available in areas where these spiders are common. Plus, these spiders don’t always inject venom when they bite – a dry bite can occur.

This actually common in venomous animals, including spiders and reptiles. Occasionally they bite and decide to not inject any venom. The point of this is to conserve it, given that it is energetically costly to produce.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Size

Being quite large and impressive compared to most arachnids, adult Brazilian Wandering Spiders can reach a leg span of up to 7 inches (18 cm) . The body size excluding the legs can be up to 2 inches (5 cm). Their size contributes to their intimidating presence.

If you’d to learn more about why they get so big, check out my article on Brazilian Wandering Spider size for more info!

Brazilian Wandering Spider Location and Habitat

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are native to South America. Here’s a quick rundown of their range and preferred habitats:

Brazilian Wandering Spider Speed

An adept hunter, the Brazilian Wandering Spider can move quickly when chasing prey or evading threats. While exact speed measurements can vary, some sources report that these spiders can achieve speeds up to 1 meter per second.

What Does the Brazilian Wandering Spider Eat?

The Brazilian Wandering Spider’s diet consists mainly of insects, other spiders, and occasionally small amphibians and reptiles. Their potent venom allows them to tackle prey larger than themselves, making them one of the apex micro-predators in their habitat.

Final Thoughts…

While the Brazilian Wandering Spider might seem terrifying to many, as an arachnid enthusiast, I find them to be incredibly fascinating. Their potent venom, hunting prowess, and adaptation to diverse habitats reveal the intricate beauty of the evolutionary process.

Just remember, these spiders, like all creatures, play a vital role in our ecosystem. Respect, not fear, should be our response to these remarkable arachnids.

The truth is that most bites are accidental, but they do occur. The fact that so few deaths occur each year is a testament to the effectiveness of the antivenom that has now become widely available.

FAQ related to the Brazilian Wandering Spider

What happens if you are bitten by a brazilian wandering spider.

Immediately after a bite from a Brazilian Wandering Spider, you will experience localized pain. Then, within 5 to 15 minutes the area around the bite will swell. The swelling can spread to most of a limb, for example. Finally, neurological symptoms like coldness, sweating, and convulsions will set in.

Do wandering spiders jump?

Wandering Spiders are excellent at jumping. They can jump several feet when surprised, and may occasionally use this as a tactic to evade predators. Jumping at you isn’t part of how bites happen though. When faced with humans, Wandering Spiders usually stand their ground and use their threat display of raised legs to warn us away.

Is Brazilian wandering spider friendly?

Wandering Spiders are not friendly. As a general rule, they are relatively calm, but can also be defensive. They tend to see humans as a threat, and will not take to being handled easily. That said, they are not aggressive, and most bites happen when someone accidentally touches one or tries to kill it.

Are Brazilian wandering spiders in Australia?

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are not found in Australia. The only species in Australia that get as large as Wandering Spiders are the Huntsman Spiders. At a distance they may appear relatively similar, but Huntsman Spiders are completely harmless to humans.

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You call that a deadly spider? Australia's funnel web can kill in 15 minutes

Queensland expert says Brazilian wandering spider found in UK family’s shopping pales in significance beside its more lethal Australian counterparts

Killer spider found in family’s supermarket shopping

An Australian spider expert has ridiculed reports from the UK of a family discovering the “world’s deadliest spider” in their groceries.

The risk posed by the Brazilian wandering spider paled in significance beside its more lethal Australian counterparts, the funnel web and the redback, according to Dr Robert Raven of the Queensland Museum.

UK tabloid the Mail On Sunday reported that a London couple were shocked to find the spider and a cluster of its eggs in a bunch of imported bananas.

But Raven said the newspaper’s account of 14 deaths worldwide caused by the spider had probably confused it with a number of reported fatalities for either the redback and the funnel web.

Research had linked the Brazilian spider to 10 deaths at the most, which were “highly likely” to be the result of anaphylaxis, or toxic shock, that could as readily have been caused by an ant bite, he said.

The 14 reported deaths each for the funnel web, which can kill in 15 minutes, and the redback, whose venom is even deadlier, exclude anaphylaxis, he said.

The funnel web “classically speaking” is considered the world’s deadliest spider because it “kills so quickly”.

“In terms of speed of death, in Australia we say funnel web, 15 minutes, no sweat,” Raven said. “With a funnel web bite to the torso, you’re dead. No other spider can claim that reputation.”

However the redback is considered more dangerous because its venom is more powerful and its bites more common, numbering at one point some 10,000 a year.

While it also delivers a “minute” amount of venom, its potency frequently causes anaphylaxis, once killing a woman bitten on the neck in five minutes.

By contrast, with the venom of the Brazilian spider, it is “very slow progress”, Raven said.

It was true that the Brazilian spider, known to scientists as phoneutria, was said to have the “most neurologically active venom of any spider”, Raven said.

But only between 0.5% and 1% of the tens of thousands of recorded bites in Brazil have turned serious, which was “incredibly low”.

“We don’t even think about redbacks in that category, we’re more like at about 20-50% turning serious, while funnel webs are 60% to 70% at least,” Raven said.

The Queensland Museum’s head curator of arachnids said the chances of being bitten by Australia’s deadliest pair of spiders were far greater.

“The number of people that get bitten [by phoneutria] is comparatively low considering the number of people in Brazil, whereas the number of people that get bitten in Australia is quite high and it gets reported and the reactions are quite bad from all of them,” he said.

He said the best information on phoneutria bites, a 2008 research paper, did not explore the determined causes of death in each of the 10 cases in Brazil.

“The thing is with the deaths that occurred, it sounds like the bad reactions have occurred from the neck upwards,” he said.

“I’m wondering if those 10 cases, given the tens of thousands of bites recorded in Brazil, it’s highly likely those 10 deaths were actually bites to the neck on which anaphylaxis had occurred.

“It could have been an ant.”

Progress with antivenoms meant there had been no deaths in Australia in recent years from funnel web bites. The only the one from a redback had been caused by rapid anaphylaxis.

Raven said the “strange indoctrination” of fear towards Australia’s spiders in foreign visitors obscured the fact the vast majority of local arachnids were benign.

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Spider Bites – When To Worry, Symptoms & First Aid

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Spiders in Australia, including Redbacks and Funnelwebs, are venomous and can cause spider bites.
• Most spider bites occur when spiders feel threatened, rather than actively seeking out humans as prey.
• The only two spiders in Australia that can kill with a direct bite are the Redback and the Sydney Funnelweb.
• Since the development of antivenoms, spider bite deaths in Australia have become extremely rare, with only one recorded death from a Redback bite in the last 40 years.
• Symptoms of spider bites can include pain, swelling, itching, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, blisters or ulcers. Proper medical evaluation is important if symptoms worsen or if there are signs of anaphylaxis.

Snakes and spiders have a well-deserved reputation as two of the most venomous creatures you’re likely to meet, and Australia has is well known for having plenty of both. If you are travelling into Australia’s outback or into a remote location, it may be helpful to complete a  remote first aid course so you are prepared for all Australia’s wildlife can throw at you and your party.

Spiders, in particular, tend to make foreign visitors nervous. While snakes are occasional visitors in the suburbs (with professionals often called in to remove them), spiders are found in almost every suburban house. Generally, people who grew up in Australia have a healthy respect for them and just adapt to garden sheds having tiny creatures that could (theoretically) end your life. This is something that a lot of international tourists struggle to grasp.

But despite our reputation for deadly wildlife (and the spider’s role in that), how much risk are we truly at from spider bites? What are the odds of suffering poisoning and death from spiders under our outdoor furniture?

When To See A Doctor?

Call an ambulance immediately if:

• You were bitten by a dangerous spider, such as a Funnel Web Spider.
• You’re unsure whether the bite was from a dangerous spider
• You are experiencing intense discomfort, stomach spasms, or a developing injury in the area where you were bitten.
• You’re encountering difficulties with your breathing or ability to swallow.
• The region surrounding the bite is exhibiting expanding redness or red lines.

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Spider Bite Symptoms

• Sudden and unexpected pain around the bite area
• Swelling, redness, and warmth around the bite
• Itching or a rash
• Muscle pain or cramps
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Chills or fever
• Appearance of blisters or ulcers in severe cases

When Do Spiders Bite, And Why?

Let’s start with how likely a spider is to bite. The reality is that no spider in Australia regards humans as its prey. So you’re never going to have a spider come looking for you as something to eat. In Australia, almost all bites result from a spider feeling threatened – most commonly when someone accidentally approaches or puts a hand in a spider’s hiding place.

Even in those cases, the majority of spiders are reluctant to bite. This is true even of the Redback – probably the most famous Australian spider. Redbacks prefer to escape from danger and only tend to bite as a last resort (such as when someone sticks their fingers in the hole it’s hiding in).

It is true that some spiders respond to threats (like a nearby human) by going on the offensive. The most significant of these is the Funnelweb, which has a reputation for chasing people to bite them (and is sometimes capable of biting through shoe leather). But even these are responding to a perceived threat – they’re not looking for trouble.

What Spider Bite Can Kill You?

Strictly speaking, there are only two spiders in Australia which can kill you with a bite – the Redback , and the Sydney Funnelweb.

The Sydney Funnelweb lives mainly on the east coast of NSW, with a few found in neighbouring states like Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria (and even Tasmania). They make distinctive webs – a tube of spiderweb that radiates out into a funnel of web-strands – giving the species its name. Male Funnel webs are known for wandering at night (in search of food and mates), which is often when they cross paths with humans.

Redbacks live almost everywhere in Australia that humans do. They’re particularly fond of living in human structures – and indeed, they seem to have become far more common since Europeans settled in Australia, and have spread along with the settlers. As such, there are good odds of finding at least one on any Australian property. But they’re reluctant biters and generally only do so as a last resort.

No other Australian spiders have ever killed humans (with the possible exception of road accidents caused by unexpected visitors or secondary reactions). Some can still cause poisoning, resulting in pain, nausea, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms. But most won’t even do that – the bites of most Australian spiders will do you no more harm than a bee-sting.

In fact, it’s worth noting that almost no one in Australia dies from spider bites nowadays. Since the development of an effective Redback antivenom in 1956, there has been only one death from a Redback bite – a Sydney man who died in 2016 ). And there have been no recorded Funnel Web bite deaths since the antivenom was introduced in 1981.

Meaning in the last 40 years, only one person in Australia has died from being bitten by a spider.

What Does A Spider Bite Look Like?

Spider bites are unfortunately not always easy to distinguish from other types of bite, such as those from an ant or other insect. There will generally be a small red lump at the bite location, which may itch or sting. In some cases, there may be a tiny puncture wound – or two, very close together, but not always. And again – this is true of many insect bites. It may not even be clearly a bite, appearing more like a sore (especially if some skin is scratched away due to the itching). In many cases, it doesn’t matter, as the majority of spider bites are no more medically significant than an ant bite. For more significant bites, there will generally be other symptoms.

Some spider bites may cause significant pain at or around the wound. Victims may also suffer nausea, headaches, abdominal pain, and vomiting. More severe bites may cause sweating, with swelling or blistering around the wound, and a burning sensation.

Redback spider bite symptoms often include the area around the bite becoming inflamed, painful to the touch, and swollen. They can also cause sweating and muscle weakness or spasms.

For a Funnelweb bite – the most dangerous kind of spider bite – the bite itself will generally be very painful. Funnelwebs are large spiders with big fangs. In addition to more common spider bite symptoms, victims might find themselves drooling and can have difficulty breathing, muscular spasms, numbness in the mouth, goosebumps, tears, disorientation or confusion, a fast pulse rate, and eventually fall unconscious.

If possible, catching the spider that caused the bite (dead or alive) can be a big help, as being able to identify the spider makes treatment a lot simpler. If you can’t catch it, then taking a photo of it or at least taking careful note of its appearance can help. But be careful not to get bitten in the process!

Spider Bite Pictures

Spider bite pictures can serve as visual references to help identify and understand the potential effects of spider bites.

While these spider bite pictures can be informative, it’s important to note that self-diagnosis based solely on visual references of a spider bite picture may not be accurate. If you have any concerns, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

What To Do For A Spider Bite?

The best treatment for a spider bite depends a lot on the kind of spider that caused the bite. Medically spider bites in Australia fall into three categories.

• Big Black Spiders
• Any Other Spiders

Big Black Spiders covers anything that could potentially be a Funnelweb – which are large spiders with bodies up to 5cm long. Because Funnel Web spiders are highly venomous and hard to distinguish from other large black spiders, treat any large black spider bite as a potential Funnel Web spider bite. You should call for medical assistance ASAP – Funnel Web venom is very fast-acting and could be fatal in less than 15 minutes. Big Black Spider bites should be treated by applying pressure to the wound and using a pressure bandage (and possibly a splint) to limit blood flow and avoid the poison spreading. Keep the person still as much as possible.

The best treatment for most other types of spider bite is generally to apply something cold, like an ice-pack wrapped in a cloth. This is true even for Redback bites – Redback venom is very slow-moving, and most Redback bites do not require hospitalisation unless symptoms get a lot worse.

If anyone in the area has first aid training, you should seek out their help if possible. Professional first aid courses usually cover spider bites and how to identify and treat them. If you’re in an area where spiders are commonplace, this might be a good reason to invest a day in getting proper first aid skills yourself.

When To Go To The Hospital For A Spider Bite (or call 000)

For a confirmed Big Black Spider bite (or a bite where you don’t know the spider but you’re seeing Funnel Web bite symptoms), you should call 000 immediately. Funnelweb venom works very quickly – in small children, death can occur in as little as 15 minutes. However, the time for adults is generally longer – up to three days – and not all bites are life-threatening. It’s best to call for an ambulance rather than attempting to transport the person to hospital yourself, as moving the person around (into and out of the car) could spread the venom more quickly.

For a Redback bite, the majority of cases don’t require medical care (other than first aid). The bite should be iced to control swelling and discomfort, and you can use painkillers such as paracetamol to ease the pain. Keeping the victim still and calm is also helpful. Don’t apply pressure to a Redback bite, as the venom is already slow-moving, and pressure will just cause pain for the victim.

If the symptoms get worse (such as the swelling spreading or the victim sweating or suffering pain in the chest or abdomen), then it’s a good idea to get to the ED (or call 000 for an ambulance).

For most other spider bites (such as huntsman or white tail spider bites), all you need to do is help ease the person’s symptoms (with an ice pack and painkillers) unless their condition gets significantly worse.

The big exception to all this is if the victim starts to show signs of anaphylaxis – such as trouble breathing, swelling or tightness in the throat, or a swollen tongue. If this happens, you should call 000 immediately.

How Long Does A Spider Bite Take To Heal?

For most spider bites, symptoms should only persist for a day or so, although occasionally they can last significantly longer – up to 2-3 weeks in rare cases.

Redback spider bite symptoms generally last around 24 hours on average and rarely last more than a week.

Funnelweb bites are more significant and can take victims a while to recover fully. Before 1980, victims would generally be in hospital for an average of two weeks. However, this has changed now an effective Funnelweb antivenom is available, and patients are often discharged from hospital within 1-3 days.

How Do I Know If I’ve Been Bitten By A Spider?

It’s important to note that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms. If you suspect that you have been bitten by a spider, it’s also a good idea to try and identify the type of spider if possible, as some species can be more dangerous than others.

How Long After Spider Bite Do Symptoms Occur?

The time it takes for symptoms to manifest after a spider bite can vary based on factors such as the specific spider species and an individual’s response to the venom. In many instances, symptoms typically emerge within a few hours to a day after the bite occurs. However, there are cases where symptoms may take longer to develop, sometimes even up to a week or more.

It is crucial to understand that not all spider bites result in noticeable symptoms. Some bites may go unnoticed or only cause mild reactions, while others can lead to more severe symptoms and complications. If you suspect that you have been bitten by a spider and have concerns regarding the symptoms or their progression, it is strongly advised to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

What Does A Spider Bite Feel Like Australia?

In Australia, spider bites can vary in their symptoms and sensations depending on the specific spider species involved. Here are some general characteristics of spider bites in Australia:

Redness and Swelling: Spider bites can cause localised redness and swelling around the bite area. The severity can vary depending on the individual’s reaction and the species of spider.

Pain and Itching: Spider bites can be accompanied by pain or discomfort at the bite site. Itching is also a common symptom that may persist for some time.

Burning Sensation: Some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation at the site of the bite.

Localised Symptoms: Depending on the spider species, you may experience additional symptoms specific to that spider. For example, bites from the funnel-web spider can cause profuse sweating, increased heart rate, and difficulty breathing.

What Are The Symptoms Of Red Back Spiders?

Redback spiders, known as Latrodectus hasselti, are venomous arachnids indigenous to Australia. The symptoms resulting from a redback spider bite can vary depending on an individual’s reaction and the quantity of venom injected. Common indicators associated with redback spider bites encompass:

Localised Pain – The bite area may be afflicted with pain, often characterised as a sharp or stinging sensation.

Redness and Swelling – The bite site can exhibit redness, swelling, and inflammation.

Itching or Rash – Itchiness or the development of a rash around the bite region is possible.

Systemic Symptoms – In certain instances, systemic symptoms may emerge, including:

• Abdominal Pain: Severe abdominal discomfort, frequently concentrated around the bite location.
• Muscle Pain and Weakness: Generalised or localised muscle ache and weakness.
• Sweating: Excessive sweating, occasionally accompanied by chills.
• Headaches: Intense or persistent headaches.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Sensations of nausea or episodes of vomiting.
• Lethargy and Fatigue: Overall tiredness and a lack of energy.

Redback spider bites can be serious, particularly among children, and medical assessment and treatment are necessary to address any potential complications.

How Do You Treat A Red Back Spider Bite?

Redback spiders are known to cause considerable pain with their bites, but they are generally not considered life-threatening. Here are some first aid steps to take if you have been bitten by a redback spider:

• Wash the Bite Area: Cleanse the bite site thoroughly with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply a Cold Pack: Use a cold pack or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the bite area for about 15 minutes. This can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
• Seek Medical Attention for Severe Symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms or the pain is unbearable, it is advisable to see your doctor for further evaluation and appropriate treatment. In cases of intense pain, it may be necessary to visit the local hospital emergency department.

It’s important to note that these first aid measures are intended as temporary relief and should not replace professional medical care. If you have any concerns or doubts, it is always best to seek medical advice promptly.

Do You Need To Go To The Hospital If You Get Bitten By A Redback?

If you encounter severe symptoms or find the pain to be unbearable, it is recommended to seek medical attention for further evaluation and appropriate treatment. In instances of intense pain, it might be necessary to go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

Can You Survive A Redback Bite Without Antivenom?

Surviving a redback spider bite without antivenom is possible, as not all bites result in severe symptoms or complications. In fact, the majority of redback spider bites are not life-threatening.

How Long Does It Take For Redback Venom To Kick In?

The onset of symptoms after a redback spider bite can vary from person to person. In most cases, symptoms begin to manifest within the first few hours following the bite. However, it’s important to note that the time it takes for redback venom to take effect can range from minutes to several hours.

The speed at which symptoms develop can depend on factors such as the amount of venom injected, the location of the bite, and an individual’s sensitivity to the venom. Some people may experience immediate pain or discomfort, while others may not notice any significant symptoms until hours later.

Spider Venom

Spider venom, found in over 45,000 spider species, is highly diverse, with each species producing its unique composition. It serves the purpose of capturing prey and defence, with varying potency and composition.

Spider venom contains proteins, peptides, enzymes, and small molecules, working together to affect prey. It can paralyse prey and even start digesting tissues before ingestion. Some spider venoms cause pain in humans when bitten. However, spider venoms also show potential for medical applications, such as developing drugs and therapies. Most spiders have relatively harmless venom, and only a small percentage pose risks to humans. Spider venom may have anticoagulant properties, and it differs from snake venom in complexity and delivery method. Caution is advised when dealing with potentially dangerous spider species.

Spider Bite Treatment

When should i be worried about a spider bite.

While most spider bites cause only mild symptoms, there are certain signs that indicate a spider bite may require medical attention. Here are some situations in which you should be concerned about a spider bite:

• Severe Pain: If the pain from the spider bite is intense, unbearable, or worsening over time, it is a cause for concern.
• Rapidly Spreading Symptoms: If the symptoms, such as redness, swelling, or rash, rapidly spread beyond the bite area or if red streaks are visible, it may indicate an infection or an allergic reaction requiring medical attention.
• Systemic Symptoms: The presence of systemic symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, or seizures is concerning and requires immediate medical attention.
• Necrosis or Ulceration: If the bite site develops necrotic (dead) tissue, ulceration, or a deep wound, medical evaluation is necessary.
• Known Dangerous Spiders or venomous spiders: If you have been bitten by a known venomous spider, such as a black widow or a recluse spider, it is best to seek medical attention to manage any potential complications.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to spider bites or other insect bites, and you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rapid heartbeat, it is an emergency situation that requires immediate medical assistance.

How Long Does It Take For A Spider Bite To Get Serious?

The seriousness of a spider bite can vary in terms of onset and progression. While some individuals may experience rapid and severe symptoms within a few hours of being bitten, others may develop complications over a longer period, possibly spanning several days. It is crucial to bear in mind that serious spider bites are relatively uncommon, and the majority of spider bites are harmless or result in only mild symptoms.

Do Spider Bites Always Need Antibiotics?

Spider bites generally do not require antibiotics in most cases. Basic wound care and symptomatic treatment are often sufficient for managing the majority of spider bites. Antibiotics are typically reserved for situations where there is a secondary infection or if the bite has become severely infected.

If you are uncertain about the severity of a spider bite or observe signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or the presence of pus, it is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can assess the bite, determine the necessity of antibiotics, and provide appropriate treatment based on the specific circumstances. It is important to avoid self-diagnosis and self-medication as they may result in unnecessary antibiotic use and potential complications.

What Ointment Is Good For Spider Bites?

An antihistamine to help with the itching and a topical antibiotic cream to prevent an infection should do the trick. You can also apply a cold compress on the bite for 15 minutes at a time to help alleviate pain.

What Is Commonly Mistaken For A Spider Bite?

Spider bites can sometimes be misidentified as other types of skin sores that exhibit similar characteristics such as redness, pain, and swelling. It is important to note that many skin sores initially thought to be caused by spider bites are actually the result of bites from various other insects, including ants, fleas, mites, mosquitoes, and biting flies.

The similarity in symptoms between spider bites and bites from other bugs can make it challenging to determine the exact cause without proper medical evaluation. In some cases, the presence of a spider may lead to the assumption that it was responsible for the bite, even though another insect might be the actual culprit. This highlights the importance of seeking medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge and experience to differentiate between different types of insect bites. They can evaluate the characteristics of the sore, consider the patient’s symptoms and medical history, and make an accurate determination regarding the cause of the skin lesion. This ensures that appropriate measures are taken for effective treatment and management.

How To Treat A Spider Bite?

For first aid treatment of spider bites other than Funnel Web and Redback spiders, the following steps can be taken:

Apply A Cold Compress: Place a cold  compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth on the bite site for about 15 minutes. This can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.

Reapply As Needed: If the pain or swelling persists, continue to apply the cold compress as necessary. Take breaks between applications to prevent excessive cold exposure to the skin.

It’s important to note that while these first aid measures can provide temporary relief, they do not replace professional medical evaluation and treatment. If you experience severe symptoms, an allergic reaction, or if the bite worsens over time, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly for proper assessment and care.

Cellulitis From Spider Bite

Symptoms of cellulitis resulting from an insect bite may not manifest immediately in the first few days. Typically, they begin with a small section of skin that becomes red, swollen, tender, and warm to the touch. The affected skin may resemble the texture of an orange peel or form blisters. Additional signs may include fever and chills. While cellulitis primarily occurs on the feet and legs, it can potentially emerge on any area of the body.

Cellulitis from Spider Bite

To minimise the risk of developing cellulitis from an spider bite, consider following these preventive measures:

Clean The Spider Bite: Wash the affected area with soap and water to remove any dirt or bacteria that may have been introduced by the insect bite.

Apply Antibiotic Ointment: If the skin is broken or the bite appears to be at risk of infection, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent bacterial growth.

Cover The Bite: Use a sterile bandage or dressing to cover the insect bite. This will help keep it clean, protect it from further irritation, and discourage scratching, which can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of cellulitis.

Replace Bandage And Ointment: Regularly change the bandage and reapply fresh antibiotic ointment to ensure cleanliness and promote proper healing. Replace them daily or whenever they become dirty or wet.

Minimise Itching: To reduce the urge to scratch the insect bite, consider taking over-the-counter antihistamines. These medications can help alleviate itching and minimise the chances of breaking the skin, which could lead to infection.

Remember, if you notice any signs of cellulitis, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or fever, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

The content on this website offers general insights regarding health conditions and potential treatments. It is not intended as, and should not be construed as, medical advice. If you are facing a medical emergency, dial 000 immediately and follow the guidance provided.

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Funnel web spider ready to strike

Spider bites

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If you’ve been bitten by a big black spider, treat it as a medical emergency. Call triple zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

• A funnel-web spider bite is a medical emergency, and you should call an ambulance.
• Most redback spider bites can be treated at home.
• White tail spiders aren’t considered dangerous to humans.
• In some people, spider bites can cause anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction).

Spider bites in Australia

It can be difficult to know if a bite from a spider is dangerous or not. This article explains the best first aid treatment needed for different spider bites.

In some people, spider bites can cause anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction). Learn more about first aid treatment for severe allergic reactions in the ‘ anaphylaxis’ section below .

Different types of spider bite

In terms of first aid, there are 3 types of spiders in Australia:

• Funnel-web spiders and other big black spiders — bites from these spiders are very dangerous and can cause death.
• Redback spiders — their bites may cause significant pain, but they aren’t life-threatening.
• All other spiders in Australia are generally harmless.

Funnel-web spider and other big black spider bite symptoms

A funnel-web spider bite causes:

• lots of sweating
• nausea and vomiting (feeling and being sick)

Other symptoms that you may have include:

• difficulty breathing
• twitching of your mouth and tongue

Mouse spider bites are not common, but their symptoms are similar to a bite from a funnel-web spider.

First aid for a funnel-web spider bite

If you suspect you have been bitten by a funnel-web spider, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.

Stay calm and follow these steps:

• mark the site of the bite on the skin with a pen or take a photo
• apply a pressure immobilisation bandage (see below)
• use a splint to keep the limb still — this slows the movement of venom around your body
• wait for the ambulance to arrive

If someone is with you, they can try to carefully catch the spider so it can be identified. To do this:

• place an empty jar over the spider
• push a stiff piece of card under the mouth of the jar
• up-end the jar so that the spider falls to the bottom
• quickly remove the card and replace the jar's lid

Pressure immobilisation bandage

An elasticated bandage is recommended for anyone bitten by a funnel-web spider. An elasticated bandage slows down the movement of spider venom into your blood.

Follow these steps to apply an elasticated roller bandage:

• wrap an elasticated bandage over the bite itself
• wrap a second bandage over the whole limb

The bandage should be tight — but shouldn’t cut off your circulation. You should not be able to easily slide a finger between the bandage and your skin.

When wrapping the second bandage, start just above the fingers or toes of your bitten limb and move towards your body.

Write down:

• the time of the bite
• when the bandage was put on

Redback spider bite symptoms

A redback spider bite can cause:

• sweating at the bite site

First aid for a redback spider bite

If you have been bitten by a redback spider:

• wash the bite area with soap and water
• use a cold pack for 15 minutes to relieve pain
• see your doctor if you have bad symptoms

If your pain is very bad, go to your local hospital emergency department.

First aid for other spider bites

For all other spider bites:

• apply a cold compress to the bite site for 15 minutes
• reapply as needed

You can use an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth. This treatment will help relieve your pain.

Don’t put the ice directly on your skin as it might cause a cold burn.

CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.

The Symptom Checker guides you to the next appropriate healthcare steps, whether it’s self-care, talking to a health professional, going to a hospital or calling triple zero (000).

White tail spiders

White tail spiders aren’t considered dangerous to humans. They can cause:

• an initial burning pain

Current evidence suggests that skin ulceration (necrotising arachnidism) isn’t commonly due to a white tail spider bite.

Anaphylactic shock

Some people occasionally have a severe allergic reaction ( anaphylaxis ) to being bitten by a spider. Anaphylactic shock is very serious and can cause death.

Symptoms of anaphylactic shock are:

• difficult or noisy breathing
• difficulty talking and/or a hoarse voice
• a swollen tongue
• persistent dizziness or collapse
• swelling or tightness in the throat
• being pale and floppy (young children)
• wheeze or persistent cough
• abdominal pain or vomiting

If someone is experiencing anaphylaxis, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation

In some cases, a person bitten by a spider may need cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

How can I prevent being bitten by a spider?

To prevent spider bites:

• leave spiders alone
• wear gloves when gardening
• relocate spiders in your home outside
• check your shoes before putting them on

Resources and support

You can learn more about spiders on the Australian Museum website .

St John Ambulance Australia has a first aid fact sheet for spiders on its website.

St John Ambulance Australia has a printable poster on first aid resuscitation procedures .

For more information on anaphylaxis, including setting up a personal action plan, visit the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy’s website.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content .

Last reviewed: January 2023

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Fact Animal

Facts About Animals

Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

Brazilian wandering spider profile.

There are more than 50,000 species of spider, and the vast majority are less dangerous than a honeybee. Almost none are aggressive, and of those with medically significant venom, only a small percentage are capable of causing death. So, on the whole, arachnophobes are just being a bit silly.

But there’s one spider that vindicates all of these fears, and few animals are as globally renowned to be a serious threat to human lives as the Brazilian Wandering Spider .

Brazilian Wandering Spiders are actually 9 species of spider in the same genus ‘Phoneutria’, one of which is found in Central America, with the rest in South America.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts Overview

These spiders are called wandering spiders because of instead of spinning a web to wait for food, or occupying a lair, they spend their night wandering in the leaf litter of the jungle floor for prey.

The sensitive hairs on its body help detect vibrations of passing prey, and it will feed on insects, lizards, frogs and any animals as large as itself.

During the day they will hide under logs, rocks, or inside termite mounds and banana plants. They will also sometimes wander into urban areas and homes, where they can come into contact with humans.

Brazilian wandering spiders are aggressive , dangerous and frightening. For once, this is an animal you should be wary of.

The females are larger, around 50% heavier than males, and produce more venom, and this might be a clue as to why their Greek name translates to “ Mudress” . These spiders will often stand and fight and have an intimidating threat display.

The potency of their venom is one of the reasons they’re so dangerous, and their ability to hide away in fruit and shoes explains why most bites are on extremities.

Interesting Brazilian Wandering Spider Facts

1. armed spiders.

In Brazilian, these are sometimes known as armed spiders, on account of their elongated front legs.

They can convey quite a bit of information with these legs, and as wandering spiders, use them to get about the forest, looking for food.

2. Banana Spiders

They’re also sometimes called ‘banana spiders’ on account of their status as a stowaway on popular fruit imported from the tropics.

This is becoming less common as stricter regulations ensure there’s less contamination of fruits, but there’s always a chance your next bunch of bananas will have a family of these spiders living inside it.

3. They have the largest venom glands of any spider

Females produce more venom than males, but both sexes have enormous venom glands. These glands are even more impressive when you consider the size of the spider is significantly less than the largest around.

The venom glands of the Brazilian Wandering Spider are over a centimetre long, and this is all housed inside the bright red chelicerae (mouth parts) which they are quick to display whenever they get upset. 1

4. They’re aggressive

These spiders can grow quite large and have long, brightly-coloured legs. Unlike most spiders, they’re known to stand their ground when threatened and are far quicker to bite than many other species.

They’ll still try to scurry away where possible, and they’re not out to get anybody.

But where most other species will flee, the wandering spiders’ aggression does make it more likely to be involved in incidents.

Most bites are on fingers and toes, a sign that they’re being stepped on or grabbed inadvertently. When the spider feels cornered, it’ll rear up on its back legs and waves its colourful arms around as a warning.

Then it’ll sway side to side, beckoning you to have a go. Anything foolhardy enough to call this bluff gets a wealth of envenomation effects. 2 3

5. They give some men erections

There are ways to accomplish this with fewer side effects, but a bit from a Brazilian wandering spider does come with a certain Viagral quality.

This isn’t as fun as it might sound. Prolonged erections in this manner are likely to harm and destroy muscles and blood vessels in the penis and could cause irreparable damage.

Besides this, the assault on the central nervous system that comes with envenomation by this spider doesn’t sound worth it. 4

6. And some people die

This assault brings with it a whole host of unpleasant symptoms. Seizures, foaming at the mouth, inability to speak, collapse, and a host of other miserable experiences.

Paralysis is possible, as is cardiac shock. Blood vessels can burst in the brain, or anywhere else, and in many cases, this can be enough to kill a person.

This spider has one of the most potent venoms of all, and there are multiple legitimate records of death as a result of bites.

7. But they’re rarely fatal

While the Brazilian wandering spider is potentially one of the most dangerous spiders in the world, there is some evidence to suggest it gives a dry bite, defensively.

This means that despite exceptionally toxic venom, the amount actually injected is less than some of the other contenders, and this is what makes it typically less lethal than the Australian funnel webs.

These spiders are classified as Dangerous Wild Animals and would therefore require a special permit to keep. Bites from wandering spiders are common in South America, but antivenom is often readily available, and they rarely result in death.

In most cases, lethal bites are cases of a very young or very old victim, and few people of healthy age are killed. 5

8. They do invade the UK sometimes

These unquestionably scary spiders show up in supermarkets in the UK on occasion, having hitched a ride on banana shipments.

On more than one occasion they’ve made their way into shoppers’ homes, but it doesn’t appear that there are any cases of them biting people as a result.

These spiders aren’t suited for temperate climates and don’t survive Winter, so there’s no risk of them multiplying.

Brazilian Wandering Spider Fact-File Summary

Scientific classification, fact sources & references.

• PeerJ. (2017), “ Dimensions of venom gland of largest venom glands in all spiders ”, Bio Numbers.
• Dave Clarke (2010), “ Venomous spider found in Waitrose shopping ‘beautiful but aggressive’” , The Guardian.
• “ Phoneutria Perty (Arachnida: Araneae: Ctenidae) ”, UF-IFAS University of Florida
• Kátia R.M. Leite (2012), “ Phoneutria nigriventer spider toxin Tx2-6 causes priapism and death: A histopathological investigation in mice ”, Science Direct.
• “ Brazilian wandering spiders: Bites & other facts ”, Live Science.

Crikey! 'Unluckiest Man in Australia' Gets 2 Penis Spider Bites in a Year

An unlucky Australian tradesman wound up in the hospital this week for a spider bite on his penis — and it's the second time it's happened to him this year.

The 21-year-old was using a portable toilet on a Sydney building site Tuesday (Sept. 27), when he "felt the sting" that he was familiar with because of the previous incident, the BBC reported . In April, the man, Jordan (he did not reveal his last name), was treated for a redback spider bite, which was also on his penis and also occurred during a visit to a work site's portable toilet.

"After the first time it happened, I didn't really want to use one again," he told the BBC . But the "toilets got cleaned that day, and I thought it was my opportunity to go use one. Had a look under both seats, and then I sat down, did my business. Next thing you know, I'm bent over in pain."

Jordan was unsure of what species of spider bit him this time around, but redback spiders are venomous, and their bites can cause severe pain, sweating and nausea. Closely related to the black widow spider , redbacks are distinguished by their namesake trait: a long, red stripe on the abdomen.

Redbacks are relatively common in Australia, and about 2,000 people are bitten by these spiders each year, according to the Australian Museum. But to be bitten twice, on the penis, in less than six months, makes Jordan "the most unlucky guy in the country," he said. [ 5 Weird Effects of Real Spider Bites ]

According to news reports, Jordan was treated for the bite and released in good health. However, spider bites have resulted in some bizarre side effects over the years.

In fact, one spider's venom contains a toxin that can induce erections . The Brazilian wandering spider's venom attracted the attention of the pharmaceutical industry for this effect. Another curious case of a spider bite resulted in necrosis, or tissue death, in a woman's ear after she was bitten by a brown recluse spider on vacation in Italy. Her doctor had to remove the tissue the venom killed and restore her ear with cartilage from her rib.

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Most spider bites result in nothing more than a red spot and some itching or swelling, and require only minimal treatment. But experts recommend safely recovering the spider or attempting to identify it in case medical attention is necessary.

Original article on Live Science.

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Mouse Spiders

• Updated 25/07/22
• Read time 2 minutes
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• Classification Family Actinopodidae Infraorder Mygalomorphae Order Araneae Class Arachnida Subphylum Chelicerata Phylum Arthropoda Kingdom Animalia
• Number of Species 8
• Size Range 10 mm - 35 mm

Introduction

Mouse spiders, Missulena sp., vary from 10 mm - 35 mm body length and all have distinctively bulbous head and jaw regions. They are often confused with funnel-web spiders. While mouse spider bites are not common, a few have caused serious effects in humans, with symptoms similar to funnel-web spider envenomation. Fortunately, mouse spiders are not usually abundant in heavily populated urban areas.

Identification

Mouse spiders are stout black spiders.

Depending on the species, their abdomen is uniform black or dark blue, or black with a light grey to white patch on top.

The head is very wide, shiny, and black, sometimes with bright red or orange-red jaws (chelicerae) and eye region.

The legs are dark and may appear long and thin.

Females are larger, stockier, more solid spider than the males, with a uniform black cephalothorax (fused head and thorax) and body.

• Mouse spiders have high, bulbous heads and jaws
• The carapace is smooth and shiny
• The eyes are spread across the front of the carapace, not closely grouped
• The spinnerets are short, the last segment domed and button-like
• Male spiders have long slender pedipalps
• Male spiders have no mating spurs on the legs
• Males of some species have distinctive colour markings but others are black overall

The following key features distinguish the mouse spiders from other large black spiders:

• bulbous head and jaws
• shiny carapace
• eyes spread across front of carapace
• short spinnerets

Male Eastern Mouse Spider, Missulena bradleyi

Female Mouse Spider, Missulena sp

Female Mouse Spider

Distribution

Mouse spiders are found over much of mainland Australia, in habitats ranging from open forest to semi-arid shrubland.

The species with the largest distribution is the Red-headed Mouse Spider. This may be related to the fact that the spiderlings of this species are known to disperse aerially by ballooning, possibly over many kilometres. This is a very rare ability among mygalomorph spiders, most of which disperse over relatively short distances by walking.

Varied owing to the wide distribution range.

The burrows built by the big inland Red-headed Mouse spiders are large, silk-lined burrows that vary from 20 cm to 55 cm deep and are widest in the entrance and bottom chamber areas. A side chamber extends off the main burrow shaft, usually closed by a trapdoor. It provides a refuge from predators and a safe place for the egg sac and spiderlings.

The burrow's most unusual feature are the two surface trapdoors set almost at right angles to each other. The silk and soil trapdoors often merge well with the ground, making them hard to see (and increasing the impression of scattered rather than aggregated burrow sites, making accurate estimates of their abundance difficult). They may be thin and wafer-like or thick and plug-like. Having two doors probably increases both prey catching area and efficiency. A few silk triplines may extend outwards from the entrances. These can help alert the spider to approaching prey or male spiders and also help with surface navigation while hunting.

Little is known about the burrows of other species. The forest dwelling Eastern Mouse Spider appears to have a single, flap-like door and a shallow burrow with a side chamber. Unlike other species, this mouse spider has occasionally been reported living in large aggregations. Recently, almost 300 specimens were collected from the backyard of a house on the central coast of New South Wales after flooding rains drove the animals from their burrows.

Seasonality

The males are often encountered when they wander searching for females from late summer until April-May. They often fall into suburban swimming pools.

Feeding and diet

Insects are the main prey of mouse spiders but their diet could possibly include small vertebrates and other spiders. Prey is usually ambushed from within the safety of the trapdoor 'hides', but mouse spiders have been observed foraging outside the burrow at night. With their powerful jaws and venom, they can tackle prey ranging from ants, beetles and spiders to small lizards and frogs.

Feeding habits

The chelicerae, with the fangs at the end, are the jaws of the spider. As with all modern spiders the mouse spiders jaws move in and out sideways rather than the straight up and down movement of the ancient group of spiders.

Breeding behaviours

Males reach sexually maturity at about 4 years of age. They leave their burrows during the breeding season to find a mate. The mating usually takes place in the females burrow

Most male mygalomorph spiders wander by night in search of females during their mating season. This is to avoid both day-active predators and excessive heat and water loss.

However, the males of several mouse spider species can be seen wandering about by day during the late summer to early winter months (especially after rain).

These daytime wanderers are unique in having distinctive body colour patterns.

Eastern Mouse Spider males ( Missulena bradleyi ) from eastern Australia have a blue/white patch on the front of the abdomen.

In M. pruinosa from northern Australia, this patch is yellowish-cream and spreads over much of the abdomen. These spiders live in open forest habitats where their pale blue and yellow/cream patches may help them blend in with the dappled shading of the forest floor, perhaps making them difficult for predators to see.

Most arresting are the males of the Red-headed Mouse Spider ( M. occatoria ) which ranges across semi-arid Australia. These males have a bright reddish-orange head and jaw region and the abdomen has a gunmetal blue tinge. In open woodland and shrubland habitats this pattern may act as both warning and disruptive colouration, deterring some predators and avoiding others by blending in with the sharply shadowed soil and litter background.

By contrast, little is known about the wandering behaviour of some small, forest dwelling mouse spider species that are entirely black in colour.

While wandering, male mouse spiders hold their long pedipalps (carrying the mating organs) extended forwards, presumably seeking an airborne scent (pheromone) associated with the female or its burrow. Once the burrow vicinity is reached the male taps the ground and silk around the doors until the female emerges. If she is receptive the male follows her into the burrow where mating occurs.

Danger to humans

Some mouse spiders have a very toxic venom which is potentially as dangerous as that of the Sydney Funnel-web Spider. However, few cases of serious envenomation have been reported. Unlike funnel-web spiders, the mouse spider is believed to use less venom and possibly even "dry bite".

Although the males are often sighted, bites by Red-headed Mouse Spiders are rare, probably because the spiders occur in less densely populated areas.

Because of their potential toxicity to humans, first aid treatment should be provided as recommended for funnel-web spider envenomation. Fortunately, funnel-web spider antivenom has proven effective in cases of mouse spider bite.

The Australian Museum respects and acknowledges the Gadigal people as the First Peoples and Traditional Custodians of the land and waterways on which the Museum stands.

Image credit: gadigal yilimung (shield) made by Uncle Charles  Chicka  Madden