Innovative Pest Consultants

There are different types of Mouse Spiders, each with distinct characteristics. Those found in

South Australia are the Red-Headed Mouse Spider, and they are by far the species with the

largest distribution.

General

The following features distinguish the mouse spiders from other large black spiders.

A bulbous head and jaws
Shiny carapace
Eyes spread across the front of the carapace
Short spinnerets

Males

Having a bright reddish-orange head and jaw region, while the abdomen is black with a gunmetal blue tinge. The male wanders around holding his pedipalps out in front of him, obviously seeking the female scent. He locates a female spiders burrow, he taps on the ground and silk around the door until the female emerges. If she is receptive, the male joins her in her burrow and mating takes place.

Juveniles

Unlike other ground-dwelling spiders whose spiderlings disperse over small distances by walking, the Red-Headed Mouse spiderlings disperse aerially by ballooning, sometimes over many kilometres.

Habitat

The Mouse spiders are ground dwellers who make their homes in burrows, often down as far as 60cm.

Danger

Bites from the Red-Headed Mouse spider are rare, as they tend to live in less densely populated areas. Because of the extreme toxicity of the venom, first-aid treatment should be provided as recommended for Funnel Web spiders. The same anti-venom is required.

Treatment

Apply ice or water to relieve pain. If a bite is suspected, seek medical attention.

Always try to catch the spider responsible and keep it for identification purposes.