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 like necrotic ulcers are now considered rare and not directly linked to the spider's venom. Research suggests most bites result in mild symptoms that resolve within days without lasting effects. Understanding the true 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 but are most prevalent in the southeastern parts of Australia, including Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia, but can also be found in Tasmania and Western Australia.
What does a Australian White tail spider look like?
They have an unmistakeable 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 correctly identify this intriguing arachnid are:
A cylindrical body that measures between 1 to 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. To be honest—most of us aren’t pulling out a magnifying glass to check for an ID when a spider scuttles across the lounge room floor. That said, most spiders are more interested in avoiding you than ruining your day. Here's the lowdown on two spiders that may look similar to the the White-tail spider
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.
Wolf Spider: With their sleek bodies and speedy moves, they might give you a fright 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 about 1-2 cm long and legs that make them appear larger.
Reluctant Biters: The Australian White-tailed spider does note attack unless provoked. Accidental bites usually occur when they’re trapped in clothing, shoes or bedding.
Survivors: These spiders can live indoors or outdoors, adapting well to urban and rural environments.
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. In fact, people usually get bitten on their arms or legs when they accidentally disturb a white-tail spider that has been sheltering under leaf litter or under clothing, towels, shoes or bedding that was left on the floor.
While anti-venoms for Redbacks have been manufactured since the 1950’s, there is no specific anti-venom for white-tailed spider bites, because their venom is not considered medically signnificant. For example, the Redback Spider’s venom is considered more toxic than the venom of a White-tailed spider. But, this is not to say that the White-tailed spider is not dangerous; their bites can be very painful and cause significant discomfort. In some severe cases, nausea and headaches can develop. Even thought 'over-the-counter' antihistamines can reduce the itching and swelling caused by a White-tailed spider bite, it's important to note that antihistamines only treat the symptoms of a bite, but do not neutralise the spider venom.
Moreover, White-tail spider bites can in some people trigger a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and develop in as little as 15 minutes!
Symptoms of the anaphylaxis include: tightness or swelling of the throat, making it difficult to breathe or swallow.
The takeaway for all is to seek immediate medical attention if any such symptoms appear or if there are concerns about the severity of a reaction to a white-tailed spider bite.
Control and manage white-tailed spider infestations
Keep in mind that the White-talied spider tends to seek dark, undisturbed places and are attracted to insects around leftover food. Therefore, the first line of defence is to clear plant debris and clutter against and 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 discourage 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.
Most importantly, don't forget to schedule an annual General Pest Treatment with PESTMAC, as this will reduce insect and spider activity in and around your home.
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