Cryptachaea gigantipes
White Porch Spider Identification in Australia
Pale comb-footed spider with extremely long front legs, often found in a visible tangle web under eaves, porches and sheltered house edges.
Usually low riskThe white porch spider, Cryptachaea gigantipes, is a native Australian comb-footed spider of rocky overhangs, caves and sheltered buildings. Its pale body, exceptionally long front legs and open gum-foot web are useful field clues, but a small household tangle web should still be compared with redbacks, cupboard spiders, common house spiders and the close C. veruculata.
Quick identification
- Pale cream to amber spider with darker markings
- Extremely long front legs
- Tangled web under eaves, porches, verandas or sheltered walls
- Related to redbacks and cupboard spiders but usually much paler
What to check next
Check whether it was resting in a loose, visible web under an eave or porch, with very long front legs and a pale body. Compare carefully with redbacks and cupboard spiders if the web is messy.
When to seek medical help
Bites appear uncommon and are not usually considered dangerous. Seek medical advice for severe pain, swelling, allergic symptoms, infection signs or if you are unsure what bit you.
Where it is usually seen
Eaves, verandas, porches, outside walls, window frames, sheltered house edges, rock overhangs, cave entrances and similar protected sites along eastern and south-eastern Australia.