What Spiders Can Kill You in Queensland
WouterWhen it comes to Australia, there are a number of dangerous animals you must know about. Spiders are no exception. Some species of spiders are venomous. They can render a painful bite, and their venom can cause serious illnesses.
If you’re bitten by a venomous spider, you must seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a spider bite include itching, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and swelling at the site of the bite. If you develop a severe allergic reaction, you may have an anaphylactic shock.
The venom from some spiders is known to cause death. Some species are considered to be the world’s most deadly. But even if you are bitten by one of these creatures, there are steps you can take to avoid a potentially fatal situation.
The venom from funnel-web spiders is extremely potent. Approximately thirty to forty people are bitten by these creatures every year. However, fatalities have not been recorded since the discovery of antivenoms in 1981.
Funnel-web spiders are found in a variety of areas across Australia. They are most common in Southern Queensland and northern New South Wales. Their fangs are strong enough to pierce shoes, fabric, and nails. They are usually found in sheltered, dark, and dry locations. If disturbed, these spiders will give a warning bite.
The redback spider is also common in the Australian environment. They tend to hide in sheds, bathrooms, kitchen cupboards, and other sheltered places. They have a distinctive red stripe on the back, and a large, bulbous abdomen.
