The common name “Huntsman Spider” includes several genus, and dozens of species. The longer forelegs are a distinctive feature of this group of spiders. The large dark shield pattern on the thorax and the black stripe down the abdomen identify this Huntsman Spider as most likely to be a Grey Huntsman, Holconia immanis.

Huntsman spiders do not build webs to catch prey, they actively hunt and chase. They do not really hunt men; they rarely bite people and the bite affects only a small, localised area.

Female Huntsman have larger bodies, 45mm, compared to males; 32mm. The spider shown here had a body of about 45mm, and legs spanning about 160mm.

However, the female shown here was seen to excreted a trace of thread. This suggests she was ready to create an egg sack. These are usually flat, oval and found behind the bark of trees.

The spider shown here was found on the wall inside the toilet in Manna Park’s cottage, after it had climbed through the ventilation fan to hunt. It is common for Huntsman Spider to enter houses at night, when they are attracted to the light. It is unclear if it is the light itself, or the insects attracted to the light, which they find most attractive. I’ve seen spiders drawn towards a campfire, which suggests it is the light itself.

Photos

Click on either photo to download a higher resolution image (T.Hastings 27/9/11)

More information:

Museum of Victoria
Australian Natural History Safari
Find a Spider Guide