White tails spiders are a common arachnid seen around Australia, and as their favourite meal is the common house black spider - they're usually found in and around your home. Their natural habitat is underneath bark and leaf litter. This translates to clothes, towels and blankets in your home, particularly if they're on the ground. Want to know more? Keep reading.
What do they look like?
These spiders have a slim, elongated body that ranges from dark grey to black. They have a pair of faint white spots on their abdomen and a tell-tale white spot at the tip. Their legs are dark orange with brown bands. Females can reach lengths up to 18mm and males up to 12mm. White-tails do not build webs - they are hunting spiders and prefer your clothes piles.
When and Where will you see them?
White-tails spiders are intolerant of the cold weather and can die off in the colder months. They are prevalent during Summer and Autumn (Jan-March). As mentioned above, they are hunting spiders. Black house spiders are considered to be their favourite meal so your home makes the perfect hunting grounds. They are nocturnal, so you are far more likely to see them at night when they are at their most active.
White-tail bite
The white-tailed spider bite is very painful. You will experience a burning sensation at the beginner, followed by swelling and itchiness at the site. It is recommended you apply ice to the area, take a photo of the spider for identification and seek medical attention if an allergic reaction occurs.
Prevention
White-tail spiders are hunters, the best way to keep them out of your home is to make sure there is no easy prey inside. This includes ensuring there are no webs in the corners, and staying on top of your pest control. Keeping clothes off the floor will also help send the message that they are not welcome.
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