The Australian Reptile Park is urging the public to exercise extreme caution as a surge in rainfall and sudden warm weather sees an increase in funnel-web spider activity.
The rise in humidity is bringing the spiders out of their hiding places, particularly during the peak of their breeding season as they emerge from their burrows in search of a mate.
There is a potential chance of encountering these venomous creatures within the confines of your home as they seek shelter from the scorching temperatures.
The Park is urging the public to safely collect live funnel-web spiders and hand them in for its lifesaving antivenom program, in which the spiders are used for the collection of venom needed to make antivenom.
In an educational video of warning that every Australian must watch, Spider Keeper Emma Teni steps the average Australian through safely catching the venomous spider and contributing to the Park’s vital funnel-web spider antivenom program.
“It’s important that Australians are across the correct first aid and know how to safely catch the spiders so that we can continue to extract their venom and save lives,” she said.
“We rely on public donations of funnel-web spiders to build up our milking individuals.”
The Sydney funnel-web prefers to make its home in sheltered, shady spots, which are always cool and humid.
This makes backyards containing dense leaf matter, scrap material or simply backing onto bushland, the perfect environment for the spiders to burrow and safely breed.
“When found inside homes, the spiders prefer cool, damp places like the laundry, garage or in shoes left out on the ground,” Teni said.
“It is best to ensure you are not leaving washing and clothing on the floors.
“If you leave your shoes outside make sure you check them first before putting your foot in blindly as shoes can be the perfect little burrow for funnel-web spiders.
“Pool filters should also be checked and cleaned regularly.”
If bitten, by any spider, stay as calm as possible, apply the correct first aid with a pressure immobilisation bandage and get to hospital as fast as you possibly can.
There are a multitude of participating spider drop-off locations.
To find your nearest location go to https://www.reptilepark.com.au/animals-at-the-australian-reptile-park/venom-program/spider-drop-off-points/