
Community identification
Huntsman Spider
Sparassidae family
- Order & Family
- Order Araneae, Family Sparassidae
- Size
- Body length ranges from 12 to 30 mm, with a leg span that can reach up to 150 mm (6 inches) or more.
Natural Habitat
Warm temperate to tropical regions, often found under loose bark on trees, under rocks, in woodpiles, or occasionally inside human dwellings.
Diet & Feeding
Mainly insects and other invertebrates; larger species are capable of catching small vertebrates like lizards and frogs.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal hunters that do not build webs to catch prey. They are known for their speed, sideways-moving crab-like gait, and tendency to wander into homes.
Risks & Benefits
Generally non-aggressive and harmless to humans; their bite is painful but not medically significant. They are beneficial as natural pest controllers in gardens and homes.