Photo: Wikimedia Commons contributor ยท CC BY-SA 3.0
Celaenia species
Bird-Dropping Spider Identification in Australia
Camouflaged orb-weaver relative that resembles a bird dropping when curled up.
Usually low riskFirst aid / what to do now
- Move away from the spider and avoid handling it.
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
- Use a cold pack for pain or swelling.
- Call 13 11 26 or seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, spreading, infected-looking, allergic, or you are unsure what bit you.
This site cannot diagnose a bite. In an emergency call 000. For poisoning advice in Australia call 13 11 26.
Quick identification
- Looks like a bird dropping when curled
- Rounded lumpy body
- Often on foliage
- More camouflage than obvious web
Danger level
Usually low risk
What to check next
Check whether the odd pale/brown lump has legs tucked close to the body.
When to seek medical help
Seek advice for severe or unusual symptoms.
Where it is usually seen
Garden foliage, shrubs and trees.
Similar spiders
Use the homepage identifier to compare this spider against other Australian spiders by size, colour, location and web clues.