Huntsman Spider

Scientific Name: Sparassidae family

Order & Family: Araneae: Sparassidae

Size: Large spiders with leg spans reaching up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) or more depending on the specific species.

Huntsman Spider

Natural Habitat

Typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. They often hide in crevices outdoors, under tree bark, or in sheds. They frequently enter houses and can be found on walls or ceilings.

Diet & Feeding

Insects and other invertebrates. They are active hunters that chase down prey rather than using webs.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal hunters known for their impressive speed and sideways, crab-like movement. They do not build webs for catching prey but may create silken retreats for molting or laying eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: They provide excellent natural pest control by eating cockroaches and other household insects. Risks: While they look intimidating and can bite if provoked, their venom is not considered medically significant to healthy humans. Bites usually result in local pain and swelling.

Identified on: 4/24/2026