A shortage of Sydney funnel-web spiders this year could have deadly consequences as the species becomes more active going into autumn, experts say.
Humidity and rainfall forecast for the Greater Sydney region in the coming months is expected to heighten male funnel-web activity, increasing the chance of people encountering them – and being bitten.
However, the Australian Reptile Park says it has received far less live funnel-web donations than usual for this time of year and is calling for more now to keep its anti-venom program up and running.
Sydney funnel-webs are the most venomous spiders in the world, and the Reptile Park’s program has played a major role in reducing funnel-web spider venom deaths to zero since its conception in 1981.
Funnel-web spiders can be found in cool, damp, shady and sheltered spots in houses and gardens, such as in garages, shoes, and laundry, or under leaf litter and bushes.
The Reptile Park says that if you encounter a funnel-web, you should catch it safely instead of killing it and take it to its location on the Central Coast or one of many drop-off spots.
“People need to remain vigilant and safely catch any funnel-web spiders they come across,” Emma Teni, a spider keeper at the Australian Reptile Park, said.
“Every spider received could be the one that saves a life.
“The venom program relies entirely on public donations of these spiders, and without them, the production of antivenom – which has saved countless Australians – would not be possible.”
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If you or someone else is bitten by a funnel web, you should apply a pressure immobilisation bandage immediately and seek medical assistance as quickly as possible.