Rahul Somvanshi
The Australian Reptile Park has issued an urgent appeal for public donations of one of the world’s deadliest spiders to support its critical antivenom program. After experiencing a “really slow” funnel-web spider season, the zoo is asking Australians to safely capture and donate these deadly arachnids to ensure the continued production of lifesaving antivenom.
Spider keeper Emma Teni emphasized that the park needs the public’s help “now more than ever” as fewer spiders have been handed in for the antivenom program. “This autumn is predicted to have high humidity and higher rainfall, which is the perfect condition to have our funnel-web spiders wandering about,” she said.
The male Sydney funnel-web spider is recognized as the most venomous spider in the world, capable of causing death in as little as 15 minutes. However, since the Australian Reptile Park established its funnel-web spider antivenom program in 1981, no deaths have been recorded from funnel-web spider bites.
The park, which houses more than 2,000 spiders, is the only facility in Australia that collects venom for the antivenom program. Teni explained that only male funnel-webs are milked for their venom because “they have this special toxin, which is absolutely deadly and vital for our lifesaving program.”
The antivenom production process is resource-intensive, requiring between 150 and 200 “milkings” of funnel-web spiders to create a single vial of antivenom. This significant requirement, coupled with the spiders’ short lifespan of about one year after reaching maturity, means the park relies on “constant” donations to maintain adequate venom supplies.
For those willing to help, the park has provided clear instructions on how to safely capture these dangerous spiders. “Grab a smooth jar and a long-handled spoon, gently place a jar in front of the spider and encourage it to walk into the jar using the spoon,” Teni advised. “Place a little bit of moisture, either soil or a wet cotton bud, in the jar and safely secure the lid.”
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Captured spiders can be delivered directly to the Australian Reptile Park or to one of several designated drop-off locations listed on the park’s website. The park accepts donations of both Sydney funnel-web spiders and their egg sacs, which can contain up to 150 baby spiders that can be raised through the antivenom program.
The upcoming autumn season is expected to bring conditions ideal for increased funnel-web spider activity. The high humidity and rainfall predicted for the season create perfect conditions for these venomous arachnids to be more active and visible, making it an optimal time for the public to contribute to this lifesaving initiative.
“Every spider received could be the one that saves a life,” Teni said. “The venom program relies entirely on public donations of these spiders, and without them, the production of antivenom, which has saved countless Australians, would not be possible.”
The urgency of this appeal highlights the critical role that public participation plays in maintaining Australia’s ability to treat victims of funnel-web spider bites, turning an encounter with one of the world’s deadliest spiders into an opportunity to save lives.
FAQ:
Frequently Asked Questions About Funnel-Web Spiders and the Antivenom Program
Funnel-web spiders, particularly the male Sydney funnel-web, are among the most venomous spiders in the world. Their venom is capable of causing death in as little as 15 minutes if left untreated. The toxin primarily affects the nervous system and can cause symptoms including severe pain, sweating, muscle spasms, and respiratory distress. However, since the development of antivenom in 1981, no deaths from funnel-web spider bites have been recorded.
To safely catch a funnel-web spider, you’ll need a smooth jar and a long-handled spoon. Gently place the jar in front of the spider and use the spoon to guide it into the jar. Once inside, add some moisture (either soil or a wet cotton bud) to keep the spider comfortable. Securely seal the lid and deliver it to the Australian Reptile Park or one of their designated drop-off points. Never try to handle the spider directly and always maintain a safe distance during the capture process.
Male funnel-web spiders are used for the antivenom program because they produce a more potent venom than females. According to Australian media outlet ABC, their venom is approximately six times more toxic than that of females. This makes male spiders more valuable for antivenom production, as they yield more potent venom samples during the milking process.
Funnel-web spider antivenom production begins with collecting venom from male spiders through a process called “milking.” The venom is then used to create antivenom through a standardized immunization process. It takes between 150 and 200 spider milkings to produce enough venom for a single vial of antivenom. The Australian Reptile Park is the only facility in Australia that collects funnel-web spider venom for this purpose.
Funnel-web spiders are primarily found along Australia’s east coast, particularly in New South Wales. They are most active during warm, humid weather conditions, making autumn (with its predicted high humidity and rainfall) an ideal time for encounters. They typically live in moist, sheltered environments like gardens, under rocks, logs, and in woodpiles. Male spiders are more likely to be encountered during their mating season when they wander in search of females. They may also seek shelter indoors during heavy rain.
If bitten by a funnel-web spider, treat it as a medical emergency. Apply a pressure immobilization bandage to the affected area, keep the bite victim as still as possible, and call emergency services (000) immediately. Do not wash the bite area, as venom residue can help identify the spider. If possible and safe to do so, capture the spider for identification. Prompt medical attention and administration of antivenom are crucial for survival and recovery.
