Atrax Orange Australian Funnel Web Spider
The Atrax Orange Funnel Web Spider, also known as the Sydney funnel-web spider. It is a highly venomous species of spider native to eastern Australia, particularly in the Sydney region. They are medium-sized spiders, with males measuring up to 3.5 cm in length, and females up to 5 cm in length.
Their body is dark in color, usually black or dark brown, with a glossy appearance. The name “orange” comes from the orange-brown coloring on the tips of their legs and palps. They have eight eyes arranged in two rows, with the front two being larger than the others.
As their name suggests, these spiders create funnel-shaped webs in which they wait for their prey. The web is usually constructed in a moist, sheltered location, such as under rocks or in crevices. When prey enters the web, the spider senses the vibrations and rushes out to subdue it with its venomous fangs.
The venom of the Atrax Orange Funnel Web Spider is highly toxic and can cause severe symptoms in humans if bitten. Symptoms include sweating, muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, and even death if left untreated. However, thanks to the development of an antivenom in the 1980s, fatalities from bites have become rare.
Overall, the Atrax Orange Funnel Web Spider is a fascinating yet dangerous creature that commands respect and caution from humans who may encounter it in the wild.
