How Venomous is the Australian White tail Spider

Introduction

The native Australian white-tailed spider is often feared for its venom, but its danger is frequently misunderstood. While its bite can cause localised pain, redness, and irritation, serious complications, such as necrotic ulcers, are now considered rare and not directly linked to the spider's venom. Research suggests that most bites result in mild symptoms that typically resolve within a few days without lasting effects. Understanding the actual risks of white-tailed spider venom helps dispel myths and provides clarity on appropriate first aid and treatment.

These spiders are commonly found in homes and gardens across both rural and urban areas. Still, they are most prevalent in the southeastern parts of Australia, including Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia. They can also be found in Tasmania and Western Australia.

What does an Australian White tail spider look like?

They have an unmistakable and distinctive white spot at the very rearmost tip of the abdomen, a stand-out feature from which they get their name. Four other features that allow us to identify this intriguing arachnid correctly are:

• A cylindrical body that measures between 1 and 2 cm in length;

• Glossy legs;

• Its colouring ranges from dirty grey to brown.

• Light-coloured grey or white spot located at its tail, and it may also have two comparable spots near the front of its body.

Nevertheless, it’s sometimes easy to confuse other eight-legged arachnids with the infamous white-tailed spider, as they can appear quite similar in some respects. Most of us aren’t pulling out a magnifying glass to check for an ID when a spider scuttles across the lounge room floor. In reality, most spiders prefer to steer clear of humans rather than seek them out. Here is the lowdown on two spiders that may look similar to the White-tail spider

1. Black House Spider: These fellas are darker and hairier than the White-tailed spider, but in dim lighting (or sheer panic), they could look similar.

2. Wolf Spider: With their sleek bodies and speedy moves, they might frighten you and get wrongly accused.

   

   

The Facts you Need to Know about the White-tailed Spider

• Nomadic Hunters: Unlike web-building spiders, white-tailed spiders are nomadic hunters. They actively search for prey, especially other spiders like black house spiders.

• Stealthy and Nocturnal: These spiders prefer to hunt during the night while hiding under bark, leaves, or even inside shoes during the day.

• Spider-eaters: While they might not be everyone’s favourite critter, white-tailed spiders play a role in controlling other insect populations! They do not lay webs to catch flies or other flying insects, and mainly feed on other spiders, keeping Black House Spiders, Daddy Long-legs and Redback Spider populations in check.

• Size Matters: They’re relatively small, with bodies measuring about 1-2 cm in length and legs that give them a larger appearance.

• Reluctant Biters: The Australian White-tailed spider does not attack unless provoked. Accidental bites usually occur when they’re trapped in clothing, shoes or bedding.

• Survivors: These spiders can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments, adapting well to urban and rural settings.

• Myth Breakers: Despite their scary reputation, most White-tailed spider bites result in mild pain or irritation, like a bee sting.

• Misunderstood Reputation: While they’ve been blamed for necrotic bites, modern evidence-based research shows their bites rarely cause severe reactions, and necrosis is now believed to be caused by other factors.

  
  

How venomous is the White-tailed spider?

Generally, white-tailed spiders do not display aggressive behaviour towards people. They are, however, attracted to clutter and dark, damp places, and they usually only bite when surprised or startled. People typically get bitten on their arms or legs when they accidentally disturb a white-tailed spider that has been sheltering under leaf litter or clothing, towels, shoes, or bedding left on the floor.

While anti-venoms for Redbacks have been manufactured since the 1950s, there is no specific anti-venom for white-tailed spider bites, because their venom is not considered medically significant. The Redback Spider’s venom, for example, is considered more toxic than the venom of a White-tailed spider. This, however, does not mean that the White-tailed spider is not dangerous. Their bite can be excruciating and cause significant discomfort. In some severe cases, nausea and headaches can develop. Even though 'over-the-counter' antihistamines can reduce the itching and swelling caused by a White-tailed spider bite, it is noteworthy that antihistamines do not neutralise the spider venom, as they treat only the symptoms of such a bite.

For those with allergies or heightened sensitivity, a White-tailed spider bite can trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis in some individuals. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that can develop within just 15 minutes. If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about the severity of a reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

• Symptoms of anaphylaxis include tightness or swelling of the throat, which can make it difficult to breathe or swallow.

Control and manage white-tailed spider infestations

Keep in mind that the White-tailed spider tends to seek dark, undisturbed places and is attracted to insects around leftover food. Therefore, the first line of defence is to clear plant debris and clutter around the home, in order to limit opportunities for spiders to get inside the house, and prevent unpleasant surprises when moving objects.

Next, an efficient method to discourage white-tailed spiders from roaming inside your home is by removing their hiding areas. Using a vacuum device or regularly dusting away cobwebs and egg sacs can prevent them from returning.

By now, you should realise that it is essential not to leave clothes, towels or laundry on the floor. To further prevent white-tailed spiders, ensure your home is kept clean and free of food crumbs, as these can attract insects that, in turn, draw in the spiders. Regularly vacuum and wipe surfaces, store food in sealed containers, and promptly dispose of food waste to minimise scents that may lure insects and spiders.

When was the last time your home had a General Pest Treatment? Scheduling one annually with PESTMAC is the best way to keep insects and spiders at bay, ensuring your home stays protected year-round.