If you have ever had to deal with a huntsman spider, you know how intimidating they can be. It can be difficult to know how to get rid of them quickly and safely. In this article, we’ll provide you with a guide on how to quickly and easily kill a huntsman spider. We’ll start with the most effective methods and then move on to more humane options. With these tips, you’ll be able to get rid of these spiders quickly and without any harm to yourself or the spider.
What is a Huntsman Spider?
Huntsman spiders are a species of large, long-legged spiders. They are commonly found in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. Huntsman spiders are usually brown or grey in color, with a distinctive pattern of yellow or white stripes down the length of their bodies. They have long, spindly legs, and they use their long legs to move quickly over surfaces. Huntsman spiders do not spin webs, instead they hunt their prey using their agility and speed. They feed on a variety of insects, including flies and cockroaches.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Brown or grey |
| Pattern | Yellow or white stripes down the length of the body |
| Legs | Long, spindly legs |
| Behavior | Hunts prey using agility and speed |
| Diet | A variety of insects, including flies and cockroaches |
Characteristics of Huntsman Spiders
Huntsman spiders are large spiders that can grow up to 15 cm in size. They have long legs, flattened bodies, and are usually brown or gray in color. They can be found in warm climates, such as Australia and Africa, and inhabit cracks and crevices in buildings, rocks, and wood. They are also known to hide under furniture and in other dark places. Huntsman spiders are mostly nocturnal and hunt their prey at night. They feed on insects, small lizards, and other small animals. They are also known to be aggressive and can bite if provoked. They usually run away when disturbed, but can be dangerous if cornered.
Potential Health Risks of Huntsman Spiders
- Huntsman spiders have venom that can cause local pain, swelling, and itchiness on the area of the bite.
- In rare cases, the bite may cause nausea, vomiting, and severe headaches.
- In some cases, the bite can cause an allergic reaction leading to respiratory difficulties.
- In extreme cases, Huntsman spider bites can lead to anaphylactic shock.
- It is recommended to seek medical attention in case of a Huntsman spider bite.
Prevention and Control Strategies
- Ensure all windows and doors are sealed properly to prevent entry from outside.
- Keep the house and surrounding yard free of clutter and debris.
- Keep firewood away from the house, as this is a common hiding place for spiders.
- Regularly vacuum and dust to remove webs and egg sacs.
- Seal cracks and crevices.
- Remove outdoor lights, as these can attract insects, which in turn attract spiders.
- Install door sweeps and screens to block entry.
- Use a chemical or natural insecticide to kill the spiders.
Biological Control
- Introduce predators to the spider’s habitat like ladybugs, lacewings, and birds.
- Encourage the presence of beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and predatory mites.
- Introduce natural repellents like neem oil.
- Create an environment that is not suitable for the spider’s survival by making changes to the local habitat.
Chemical Control
| Product | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Insecticide spray | Spray directly onto spider and its hiding places, such as cracks and crevices. |
| Insecticide dust | Apply dust to areas where spiders hide, such as under furniture and appliances. |
| Granular insecticide | Spread granules in areas where spiders are likely to travel, such as along walls and baseboards. |
Chemical control is the use of insecticides to kill huntsman spiders. This is done by spraying, dusting or spreading granules in areas where the spiders are likely to be found. Insecticides are available in liquid, dust and granular forms. It is important to read and follow the label instructions carefully when using any insecticide. For best results, use a combination of treatments.
Mechanical Control
- Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the spider and dispose of the contents outside
- Set up sticky traps or fly paper to capture the spider
- Spray insecticides directly on the spider to kill it
- Spray a mixture of soapy water and isopropyl alcohol on the spider to dehydrate it
- Wrap the spider in a paper towel and put it in the freezer overnight to kill it
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Huntsman Spider?
Huntsman spiders are large, long-legged spiders found in warm climates around the world. They are non-aggressive, non-venomous spiders that typically hunt for food at night. They are usually found in dark places such as under rocks, in tree hollows and under bark. Huntsman spiders can grow up to 15 cm in length and may have a leg span of up to 28 cm.
How do I identify a Huntsman Spider?
Huntsman spiders can be identified by their long, spindly legs and distinctive, flattened bodies. They are usually gray or brown in color, may have a pattern of stripes or spots, and may have a yellow or orange colored abdomen. They range in size from 1 to 5 inches in body length, and their legs can be up to twice as long as their body. Huntsman spiders are often found in dark hiding spots, such as underneath rocks, logs, and woodpiles.
What are the best methods for killing a Huntsman Spider?
The best methods for killing a Huntsman Spider include using a glass jar, a vacuum cleaner, or a chemical insecticide. To use a jar, first cover the spider with a piece of paper or cardboard, then slide the jar over the spider and trap it inside. To use a vacuum cleaner, fit it with a nozzle attachment and carefully suck up the spider. For an insecticide, use a product specifically designed for spiders and follow the instructions on the label. Always take the necessary safety precautions when using insecticides.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when killing a Huntsman Spider?
When killing a Huntsman Spider, it is important to protect yourself by wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, and gloves. Additionally, use a long object such as a broom handle to avoid coming into contact with the spider. Finally, when disposing of the spider, make sure it is in a bag or container to prevent it from escaping.
Are there any natural methods for deterring Huntsman Spiders?
Yes, there are a few natural methods for deterring Huntsman spiders, including using essential oils, vacuuming and cleaning regularly, and keeping your home free from clutter. Essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree and eucalyptus can be used as a natural deterrent and applied around the outside of your home or around entry points. Vacuuming and cleaning your home regularly helps to remove spiders and their webs. Lastly, reducing clutter will provide spiders with fewer places to hide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, killing a huntsman spider is a relatively straightforward process. A few simple steps – such as identifying the spider, collecting the necessary materials, and using the appropriate method – are all that’s needed to effectively eliminate the spider and its webs from your home. With the correct approach, you can quickly and easily get rid of a huntsman spider and its webs.
