In Australia, “spider season” refers to a period when spiders become notably more visible and active, leading to increased encounters with humans. This heightened activity is a natural part of many spider species’ lifecycles, influenced by Australia’s climate. While spiders are present year-round, their prominence increases during this time.
When Spider Season Occurs
Spider season in Australia aligns with the warmer months, spanning from late spring through summer and into early autumn. This period runs from January to May, marking the peak time for increased spider activity. During these months, many spider species, especially larger ones, are more frequently observed.
The season’s duration and intensity can vary slightly depending on the specific region and prevailing weather patterns. While spiders are always present, their noticeable presence increases significantly during this time.
Why Spiders Are More Active
Increased spider activity during spider season is driven by environmental and biological factors. Spiders are cold-blooded, so their activity levels are closely tied to ambient temperatures. As temperatures rise, spiders become more active, moving both outdoors and indoors.
The warmer climate creates optimal breeding conditions for many spider species. Male spiders become particularly active searching for mates, increasing their visibility. Abundant insect prey, thriving in warmer conditions, provides a plentiful food source, encouraging spider activity and growth. Some spiders may also seek cooler, shaded refuge inside homes during intensely hot days.
Commonly Encountered Spiders
During Australia’s spider season, several species are commonly encountered due to their increased activity and movement into human-inhabited areas.
The Huntsman spider, large and flattened, is often seen in homes and cars. These grey to brown spiders have long, spindly legs and are agile hunters that do not build webs. They are found under tree bark, rocks, and in crevices.
The Redback spider is recognizable by the female’s distinctive red or orange stripe on her black body and an hourglass-shaped mark on her underside. They prefer dry, sheltered locations near human habitation, like sheds and under outdoor furniture, constructing tangled webs.
Funnel-web spiders, particularly the Sydney funnel-web, are robust, dark brown to black with a shiny carapace and prominent fangs. They build funnel-shaped webs in moist, sheltered habitats like forests and gardens. Males wander for mates, often entering homes or falling into pools after rain.
White-tailed spiders are dark reddish-grey, cigar-shaped, with a creamy-white spot at the tip of their abdomen and dark orange-brown banded legs. These active night hunters prey on other spiders. They are found in cool, dark areas like under bark and leaf litter, but utilize buildings for shelter.
Navigating Spider Season
Navigating spider season involves awareness and simple precautions. Maintaining a tidy living space, indoors and outdoors, discourages spiders. This includes cleaning garages and sheds, and removing leaf litter or debris from around the home.
Sealing cracks and gaps in walls, around windows, and under doors prevents spiders from entering homes. Shaking out shoes, clothing, and towels before use helps avoid unexpected encounters. Most Australian spiders are not dangerous to humans and play a beneficial role controlling insect populations.