spiders Archives

The truth about white-tailed spiders

White-tail spiders have gained a frightening reputation since the 1980s – much of it undeserved. We’ve answered your questions about these misunderstood and maligned arachnids.

Nature & Wildlife

World’s deadliest spider: the funnel-web

Low-down on the funnel-web spider – and how an evolutionary accident made it one of the most dangerous spiders on Earth, able to kill a human in 15 minutes.

Nature & Wildlife

Hidden housemates: Australia’s huge and hairy huntsman spiders

Huntsman spiders deserve a place alongside koalas and kangaroos as iconic Australian wildlife.

Nature & Wildlife

Rare red-coloured mouse spider photographed

A rare fully red mouse spider has been found in north-western Sydney, after a huge infestation.

News

Seven new species of Australian spider discovered

Scientists have discovered seven new Australian spiders, including a new tarantula, in the Northern Territory

Nature & Wildlife

What to do if you find a spider: A complete guide

Australian spiders certainly have a fearsome reputation, but what should you do if you encounter one?

Nature & Wildlife

GALLERY: Australia’s top 10 most venomous animals

Venom is commonly measured by the LD50: the concentration of toxin (lethal dose, mg/kg) required to kill half of a test animal group. A smaller number indicates more concentrated venom, with the most venomous species gaining a rating of <1. These are Australia's most venomous animals, ranked by their LD50 rating.