Sparassidae
Identify a Huntsman Spider in Australia
Large, flat, long-legged spider often seen on walls, ceilings, tree bark and inside cars.
Usually low riskHuntsman spiders look dramatic because of their leg span, but they are usually not considered dangerous. Their flat body and wide sideways-spreading legs are useful clues, especially when the spider is running across a wall, ceiling, bark, car interior or under loose objects rather than sitting in a prey-catching web. Colour varies widely between huntsman species, so body posture, broad leg span and no capture web are more reliable than a brown or grey pattern alone. Give the spider space and compare it with other huntsman variants if a sharp photo shows distinctive markings.
Quick identification
- Very wide leg span
- Flattened body
- Legs splay sideways like a crab
- Often on walls, ceilings or in cars
What to check next
Check whether the legs spread sideways and the body is flattened rather than round or chunky.
When to seek medical help
Seek care for severe pain, allergic reaction or concern after a bite.
Where it is usually seen
Tree bark, rock crevices, walls, curtains, ceilings, sheds and cars.