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PESTS:
MOUSE
SPIDERS
 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:
Have 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. When 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.
What kind of
spider is it?
Redback
Spider
| Brown
House
Spider
| White
Tailed
Spider
| Huntsman
Spider
| Mouse
Spider
| Wolf
Spider
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