Funnel-Web Spider (Atrax robustus)
- Identification: Large, robust spider with shiny body and powerful fangs.
- Size: 3–5 cm.
- Colour: Dark brown to black, glossy appearance.
- Habitat: They live in burrows, under logs, in gardens and shaded areas.
- Feeding Habits: Ambush predator and attack insects or small prey that pass by.
They make funnel-shaped webs. Sighted after rain or in cool, damp locations.
They are very toxic and have aggressive defence behaviour.
Builds messy, irregular webs. They can bite if provoked; venom can cause serious illness.
They are non-aggressive and generally harmless. Egg sacs/nests in protected corners.
Can be seen frequently in gardens and garages. They hunt prey instead of using webs.
Nocturnal and commonly enters homes. Seen on floors, bedding and towels.