After devastating wildfires swept through parts of Australia, including Sydney, hot and humid weather produced the perfect conditions for spiders to emerge.
An urgent warning was given to the public about the invasion of these deadly spiders, known as funnel web spiders. These spiders are known as the world’s most venomous spider, according to the Australian Reptile Park. In fact, the parks head of reptiles, Daniel Rumsey, stated, “Funnel-web spiders are potentially one of the most dangerous spiders on the planet, in terms of a bite towards humans, and we have to treat it very seriously.” (1)
Although people have died in the past from a funnel spider bite, there have not been any confirmed deaths from the spider’s bite since the 1980s. (1) This is thanks to the antidotes created from the spider’s venom. The anti-venom is produced by milking the male spiders. Then, the venom is injected into a rabbit. Later, the mammal produces an antibody serum that can be used to protect humans against the spider’s vicious attack.
It’s recorded that bites from Sydney funnel-web spiders have caused 13 documented deaths before 1981, seven of which were children. It was found to be the male species that caused these deaths, in the cases where sex could be determined. (2)
It is reported that 30 to 40 bites from these spiders are still happening each year. But with the Australian Reptile Park’s massive supply of funnel-venom, they are able to save hundreds of lives. This supply of funnel-venom is the only known stockpile in the world. (3)
How to Protect Yourself Against These Spiders
While you want to steer clear of any funnel spider, the male funnel-web spiders are of particular concern. As the females remain more sedentary, the males are out on the hunt for mating partners. Not only are the males seen more often, but their venom is six-times more potent than that of their female counterparts. (4)
The funnel-webs are likely to be found at ground level since they don’t jump and can’t climb on smooth surfaces.
They also love hiding in piles of clothing and shoes where they can safely burrow. If you are in an area known for fennel spiders, you must carefully check and shake clothing before picking up and be aware of what’s around you.
Jake Meney, of the Australian Reptile Park, said the spiders aren’t difficult to catch. “If you see one on the ground just slowly put a jar over it or just put the jar in front of it and it will usually just crawl straight in.” (4) By catching one of these spiders and bringing it to the park, you are helping to save lives.
Once Bitten
Meney warns that anyone bitten by a funnel-web should “apply immediate first aid, by applying pressure or a compression bandage to stop limit circulation to the entire limb, immediately followed by going straight to the hospital.” (4)
As terrifying as this new alert is for the people living in Australia, thankfully they know what to look out for, how to treat a bite, and can take comfort in knowing there is a lifesaving treatment readily available.
