Think you can outrun a Huntsman? Think again!
If you've spent any time in Australia, you've probably heard stories about Huntsman Spiders.
"They're big but harmless."
"They eat the mozzies."
"They're more scared of you than you are of them."
That last one becomes a little harder to believe when a huntsman suddenly sprints across your wall at lightning speed. And as it turns out…your eyes weren't playing tricks on you.
Science has confirmed it
Australian researchers have discovered that huntsman spiders can run much faster than scientists previously realised. Thanks to high-speed cameras and detailed tracking, they've found these long-legged spiders are built for speed, and have been recorded to move at a speedy 3.59 metres per second, which is around the speed that a person jogs. Their medium size and long legs combined with a unique running style helps them move incredibly quickly.
So yes...that blur disappearing behind your couch? Very real.
Why are they so fast?
Unlike spiders that build webs and wait for dinner to arrive, huntsman spiders are active hunters. They chase insects instead of trapping them, so speed is one of their greatest superpowers. Their long legs allow them to cover surprising distances in just a few seconds, making them excellent at catching prey like cockroaches, moths and other household pests.
In other words...they're basically Australia's super hero eight-legged pest controllers.
Good news for us
Despite their impressive speed, and occasionally terrifying entrance into your living room, Huntsman Spiders are harmless to humans as they have no poison and eat insects. They're not aggressive and would much rather escape than have a confrontation. If one does appear inside your house, it's probably just looking for shelter or chasing dinner. So while your first instinct might be to scream, the Huntsman is probably thinking exactly the same thing.
Fun facts about the Huntsman Spider
Huntsman spiders are found across Australia, from tropical Queensland to Tasmania, and can grow to an impressive size with leg spans reaching around 15 centimetres. They're renowned for appearing in unexpected places, including behind curtains, inside letterboxes, and occasionally... behind your car's sun visor. If that last one just unlocked a new fear, sorry.
Australia has a reputation for deadly wildlife, but the huntsman is one of the good guys. They help keep insect numbers down, and prefer to stay well out of your way.
Learn the quirky side of Australia
From speedy Huntsman Spiders to giant bathroom key spoons, Australia is full of quirky surprises. JoinG'DayGalah and discover the slang, culture and fascinating facts that help you understand Australia like a local. No worries, mate!
