Spiders are a common concern for many Australians—not just because of their creepy appearance, but also due to the risk of painful or even dangerous bites. With several venomous species across the country, knowing how to identify, avoid, and treat spider bites is essential.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to the most commonly encountered spider bites in Australia, the risks involved, and recommended first aid.
Are Spider Bites a Serious Risk?
According to a report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 19% of all venomous bite or sting hospitalisations in 2017–18 were due to spider bites. The top offenders were:
- Redback Spider – 42.5% of spider bite hospitalisations
- White-Tailed Spider – 5.7%
- Funnel-Web Spider – 3.8%
- Unknown species – ~45% of cases
While fatalities are rare today thanks to antivenoms, spider bites can still cause significant pain and health concerns.
Redback Spider Fast Facts:
- Bite Risk: Most bites occur when disturbing the female’s web.
- Toxicity: Contains alpha-latrotoxin, which disrupts nerve function.
- Symptoms: Sweating (including at the bite site), weakness, nausea.
- Who’s Most at Risk: Children, the elderly, and people with medical conditions.
- First Aid: No pressure bandage required. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen or the patient is in a high-risk category.
Redback spiders are responsible for the most spider bite hospitalisations in Australia—estimated between 2,000 and 10,000 cases annually.
White-Tailed Spider Fast Facts:
- Bite Risk: Bites typically occur indoors—especially in bedding or clothes.
- Toxicity: Weak venom; no evidence of flesh-eating effects.
- Symptoms: Temporary pain, swelling, and rash. No necrotic ulceration.
- First Aid: Clean the area and monitor for infection. Standard spider bite care applies.
Despite common myths, white-tailed spider bites do not cause skin necrosis. Scientific reviews have debunked this link.
Funnel-Web Spider Fast Facts:
- Bite Risk: Rare but serious—around 30 cases annually. Male spiders are more dangerous, especially during mating season or heavy rain.
- Toxicity: Highly venomous. Affects the nervous system, heart, and other organs.
- Symptoms: Rapid onset of nausea, drooling, difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, and potentially death within 15 minutes in children if untreated.
- First Aid: Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage and seek urgent medical help. Similar to snake bite protocol.
Since the introduction of an antivenom in 1981, there have been no deaths from funnel-web spider bites.
Wolf Spider Fast Facts:
- Bite Risk: Common backyard spider. Bites usually occur when the spider is accidentally pressed against the skin.
- Toxicity: Mild; does not cause tissue death.
- Symptoms: Localised pain, itching, and sometimes swelling.
- First Aid: Wash the bite site and apply a cold compress. Symptoms usually resolve on their own.
Wolf spiders are ground-dwellers and are one of the most frequently encountered spiders in Australian gardens.
Standard Spider Bite First Aid (for Non-Funnel-Web Bites)
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
2. Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain.
3. Keep the patient calm and still.
4. Monitor for signs of allergic reaction or worsening symptoms.
5. Seek medical help if symptoms progress.
Important: Do not apply a pressure bandage unless it is a suspected funnel-web spider bite.
Final Thoughts
While the thought of spiders can be unsettling, most bites in Australia are not life-threatening. That said, awareness and quick first aid can make all the difference.
If you’re seeing signs of spider activity around your home or business, professional pest control can help reduce the risk of unwanted encounters.
Need help with spider control?
Call us on 0421710004 today for safe and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.