The Australian Reptile Park is urging Sydneysiders to stay alert as this year’s Funnel-web spider season begins, and conditions are perfect for increased sightings. Following recent rainy weather and rising temperatures, the combination of moisture and heat provides ideal conditions for these venomous spiders to thrive as they head into their breeding season.
With male Funnel-web spiders leaving their burrows in search of mates, the likelihood of them turning up in homes or gardens across the Greater Sydney region increases. Popular hiding places for funnel web spiders in houses include shoes left outside, piles of laundry, pools and in debris in gardens. The Australian Reptile Park, the sole supplier of Funnel-web venom to produce lifesaving antivenom, is calling on the public to assist in safely capturing these spiders and delivering them to the Park or designated spider drop-off locations.
Emma Teni, Spider Keeper , emphasised the importance of public participation in the program “With breeding season upon us and the weather creating ideal conditions, we rely on spider donations more than ever. Male Funnel-web spiders have short lifespans, and with approximately 150 spiders required to make just one vial of antivenom, we need the public’s help to ensure we have enough venom to meet demand.”
Residents who come across Funnel-web spiders are asked to follow safety protocols when collecting them, and to also look out for egg sacs. Each egg sac can contain between 50 to 150 spiderlings, which are invaluable for the Park’s venom extraction program.
“If you spot an egg sac while collecting a spider, it’s important to safely collect that as well. It can provide a robust supply of healthy young spiders to aid in our antivenom production. To do so, use a wide mouthed jar and a large spoon to safely guide the spider in then pop on the lid. Funnel web spiders can’t climb up plastic or glass, so as long as you are sensible during the catching process, it can be quite safe! Once collected, drop the spider off at one of our many drop off points around the Central Coast, Sydney and Newcastle.” said Ms. Teni.
Ms Teni also highlighted the importance of safety and first aid knowledge during Funnel-web season “It’s essential that Australians know how to handle Funnel-web spiders safely and are familiar with the proper first aid measures,” she explained. “We depend on the public for spider donations, and we want to make sure everyone stays safe during the collection process, especially with conditions being so favourable this year.”
Funnel-web spiders seek out cool, damp areas such as gardens with dense foliage or debris, and they can also find their way into homes. Residents are advised to check areas like laundry rooms, garages, or shoes left outside, as these are common hiding places for Funnel-webs. Pool filters should also be regularly cleaned.
In the event of a Funnel-web spider bite, it is critical to remain calm, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage, call 000 and go to hospital immediately.
The Australian Reptile Park has been leading the world in Funnel-web spider research and venom collection since the program’s inception in 1981. Thanks to this initiative, no deaths have been recorded from a Funnel-web spider bite since the antivenom became available – a 40-year legacy.
To locate your nearest spider drop-off point, visit: Spider Drop-Off Locations
