REDBACK SPIDER
Redback spiders are one of the most venomous spiders found in Australia. These spiders belong to the genus
Latrodectus, including the infamous Black Widow spider. The venom of redback spiders is
known for its potency and is venomous to humans.
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How Venomous Are Redback Spiders?
The venom of Australian redback spiders contains potent neurotoxins that affect the nervous system and cause significant harm and life-threatening
symptoms in humans. Redback spider venom’s potency lies in its ability to disrupt nerve signals, leading to profuse sweating, nausea,
and, in some cases, respiratory difficulties. The toxicity of their venom is comparable to that of the Black Widow
spider, with LD50 values ranging from 0.3 to 1.0 mg/kg. LD50 measures the venom’s toxicity, with a
lower value indicating a higher potency.
The females inflict the most dangerous bites; bites from the males usually only produce mild, short-lived pain. While fatalities are rare, thanks to antivenom availability, the bite can cause intense discomfort lasting for days or even weeks. Older adults and children are
especially susceptible to the effects of venom. To minimise the risk of dander, be cautious in areas such as
garden sheds, pot plants, outdoor furniture, and other cluttered spaces.
Symptoms of Redback Spider Bite
Redback spiders are venomous spiders that can cause significant harm if bitten. Their venom contains potent neurotoxins that can cause a range of symptoms. Usually, there is extreme and escalating pain at the bite site, as well as swelling and local sweating. As the venom works its way through the body, more extreme symptoms include chest or abdominal pain, headaches, sweating, and increased blood pressure can occur. Redback spider bites can also result in:
Swelling and Pain: The bite site may become swollen and painful, accompanied by redness and warmth.
Tingling and Numbness: Victims may experience tingling sensations and numbness around the bite area.
Convulsions: In severe cases, redback spider bites may cause convulsions or seizures.
Dizziness: Victims may begin to feel lightheaded or dizzy.
Nausea and Vomiting: In some individuals, the venom may cause nausea and vomiting.
Muscle Weakness: Victims may exhibit muscle weakness or paralysis.
Difficulty Breathing: In severe cases, the venom may cause difficulty breathing.
The above symptoms indicate a severe bite that requires medical treatment. Redback spider bite symptoms can last for 24 to 48 hours, but in some cases, can last for weeks. If bitten, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial as early treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Redback Spider Treatment and First Aid
In the event of a redback spider bite, immediate medical attention is crucial. The following steps can be taken as first aid:
Remove the Spider: If possible, remove the spider’s fangs from the bite area.
Wash and Clean: Wash the bite area with soap and water and apply a clean dressing.
Seek Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical attention and treatment, as antivenom may be required in the event of a redback spider bite.
The Redback Spider is a venomous spider native to Australia. It is known for its distinctive red or orange stripe on its abdomen, which gives it its name. The Redback Spider belongs to the widow spider family, which also includes the notorious Black Widow Spider found in other parts of the world. The female Redback Spider is larger than the male, measuring about 1 cm in length, while the male is only about 3-4 mm long. The female’s body is usually black, with the characteristic red or orange stripe on the upper side of its abdomen. The male Redback Spider is light brown with white markings.You will immediately recognize the female redback spider; she is shiny black with a wide red stripe on her back. The females also have an hourglass-shaped orange marking on the belly. Males are usually light brown with white markings, and no red stripe. Also, the females are larger than the males, with a body around 1 cm long, compared to a 3–4 mm body for males.
Redback spiders often inhabit human-populated areas, increasing the risk of encounters. They are commonly found in dark, sheltered places such as under logs, rocks, or in sheds and outdoor toilets. They build tangled, messy webs close to the ground, where they wait for their prey to become entangled. Their diet mainly consists of insects, such as beetles, flies, and grasshoppers. While the redback originated in Western Australia, it is now found throughout the country; by the early 1900s, redbacks had spread to every urban area in Australia. Like all spiders, redbacks eat insects, and sometimes small animals such as lizards. Because of that, redback spiders will spin their webs near places where insects are abundant, such as around garbage. However, they can be found in nearly any dark, dry, out of the way place. Be sure to always shake out any shoes, gloves, or clothes that have been left outside. Finally, the spiders are most active at night.
How Dangerous Are Redback Spiders?
Although Redback Spiders are venomous, they are not aggressive and will only bite when provoked or threatened. However, most spider bites reported in Australia are from redbacks and are accountable for anywhere from 2,000 to 10,000 bites yearly. The good news is that there is redback antivenom, and there have been no deaths due to redback bites for 50 years. In fact, by 2017, there are only 250 redback bites requiring antivenom treatment each year. Most reported bites occur in the warm months and the afternoon or evening. However, fatalities from Redback Spider bites are rare, thanks to the availability of antivenom. Although venomous, Redback Spiders are not aggressive and only bite when provoked. But what makes these spiders more dangerous is the fact that they love living near people.
Redback Spiders are most active during the warmer months, but they can be found throughout the year. Female Redback Spiders are known for their unique reproductive behavior. After mating, the female often kills and eats the male, a behavior known as sexual cannibalism. The female then lays her eggs in a silken sac and guards it until the spiderlings hatch. They are most active during warmer months and exhibit unique reproductive behavior
Dogs seem to have some resistance and are only at serious risk if they are bitten many times. Dogs rarely need antivenom. On the other hand, cats seem more susceptible and will require antivenom. Other animals that are very susceptible to redback spider bites are guinea pigs, horses, and camels. Keep in mind, a horse stable is a very desirable place for a redback to spin a web, so inspect your barns and stables regularly. If a dog is bitten, they can suffer vomiting and diarrhea, muscle tremors, abdominal rigidity, and seizures. Cats may protrude their tongues, salivate excessively, or become agitated.
What to Do If You Find a Redback Spider
Redback spiders are not aggressive and will leave you alone if you leave them alone. However, remaining calm and taking appropriate action is crucial if encountering a redback spider. Refrain from attempting to handle the spider. Instead, keep a safe distance and assess the situation. If the spider is in a high-traffic area of your home or workplace, carefully consider using a long-handled broom to relocate it to a secluded outdoor location. However, it is best to contact a professional pest control service for help. Always wear closed-toe shoes and long pants in areas where redbacks might hide, such as garages or garden sheds. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention and, if possible, safely capture the spider for identification. Remember, while redback bites can be dangerous, fatalities are rare with prompt treatment.
