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Huntsman Spider

Category

Actual Size: 3 to 5” including legs

Characteristics: Flattened body, long legs with distinctive black spots, and black border around the head.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Needs warmth to survive, which is why they often invade homes in the wintertime. Usually found in sheltered areas like beneath furniture or inside of cabinets.

Habits:

  • As their name suggests, these spiders hunt rather than setting up webs.
  • Often found indoors, especially during cold winters.
  • Occasionally called the banana spider or giant crab spider.


Huntsman Spider

Huntsman Spiders in Atlanta, GA

Huntsman spiders are known for their distinctive appearance, characterized by long, slender legs and flattened bodies. These spiders typically have brown or gray coloration with mottled patterns, aiding in their camouflage against bark or foliage. Unlike many other spider species, huntsman spiders don’t build webs to catch prey. Instead, they hunt actively, using their speed and agility to chase down insects and small invertebrates. Huntsman spiders are not considered aggressive towards humans but can move swiftly if disturbed.

Huntsman Spider Habitat

Huntsman spiders seek out sheltered spots like under bark, rocks, or within foliage, preferring to stay hidden during the day and becoming active hunters at night. These spiders are known for their exceptional agility and speed, allowing them to catch prey without the use of webs. They primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates such as cockroaches, moths, and other spiders. Their stealthy hunting techniques involve patiently waiting for prey or actively pursuing it, using their long legs to chase and capture insects. Despite their intimidating appearance, huntsman spiders play a valuable role in controlling pest populations, making them beneficial inhabitants in many ecosystems.

Huntsman Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Huntsman spiders are generally harmless to humans and don’t pose significant threats or dangers. While their appearance might seem intimidating due to their size and speed, they are not aggressive and tend to avoid confrontation. However, their presence in homes or unexpected encounters might startle individuals. Their bite, though rare, can cause mild pain, redness, and swelling similar to a bee sting, but severe reactions are uncommon. As with any spider or insect bite, allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals, warranting medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. Huntsman spiders can be unpleasant to find around your property. If you have an infestation, contact your local spider removal experts for help.