Missulena species
Mouse Spider Identification in Australia
Stocky ground spider; males may have a red head or pale patch depending on species, and can be confused with funnel-webs.
Medically significantMouse spiders are less commonly encountered than many house spiders but deserve caution because bites can resemble funnel-web envenomation. Look for a compact, stocky ground spider from a burrow, garden or open-ground setting; some wandering males have a red head or jaws, while others may show a pale patch. These clues can help distinguish a mouse spider from a house-web spider, but they do not safely separate every mouse spider from a funnel-web. Do not handle a large dark ground spider and seek urgent advice if a mouse-spider or funnel-web bite is suspected.
Quick identification
- Stocky body
- Ground-dwelling or wandering male
- Some males have red head/jaws or pale patch
- Can be mistaken for a funnel-web
What to check next
Check for a stocky build and ground habitat. Treat bite risk cautiously if unsure.
When to seek medical help
Seek urgent medical help for suspected mouse spider bite, especially with systemic symptoms.
Where it is usually seen
Ground burrows, open ground, gardens and bushland across much of Australia.