Huntsman spider
Scientific Name: Heteropoda venatoria (likely)
Order & Family: Araneae, family Sparassidae
Size: Leg span can range from 3 to 5 inches (7 to 12 cm); body length is approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm).
Natural Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They are commonly found in and around homes, under bark, or in crevices and garden sheds.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous. They primarily eat insects like cockroaches and moths, but larger individuals may occasionally consume small lizards.
Behavior Patterns
They are nocturnal hunters that do not build webs to catch prey; instead, they use speed and agility to chase and ambush. They are known for their crab-like gait and ability to move sideways rapidly.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits: highly effective pest control, specifically for cockroaches. Risks: while their venom is generally not dangerous to humans, a bite can cause localized pain and swelling. They are usually non-aggressive and prefer to flee unless provoked or guarding egg sacs.
Identified on: 2/25/2026