Spotting a large, fast-moving spider darting across your Florida garage or patio can be startling, but it’s likely a huntsman spider. These long-legged arachnids may look intimidating, but they’re more beneficial than dangerous, hunting pests like cockroaches. At On Demand Pest Control, we’re here to help you understand huntsman spiders in Florida, identify them, and keep them out of your home. Read on for key facts, identification tips, and expert prevention strategies to stay pest-free.
What Are Huntsman Spiders?
Huntsman spiders, part of the Sparassidae family, are large, agile spiders often called giant crab spiders due to their crab-like leg arrangement. Native to Asia, these pantropical spiders thrive in Florida’s warm, humid climate. Unlike web-spinning spiders, huntsman spiders actively hunt their prey, feasting on insects like cockroaches, crickets, and even small lizards. Their speed and size—sometimes spanning 5 inches or more—make them stand out, but they’re generally harmless to humans.
In Florida, huntsman spiders are common in South Florida, where the subtropical environment suits their needs. They’re often found in homes, garages, or cars, hiding behind furniture or sun visors, earning them a reputation as surprise guests.
How to Identify Huntsman Spiders
Recognizing a huntsman spider is key to distinguishing it from other Florida arachnids. Here’s what to look for:
Size: Leg span up to 5 inches or larger.
Legs: Long, angled legs spread forward and sideways, resembling a crab.
Body: Flattened, ideal for squeezing into tight spaces like under bark or furniture.
Color & Markings: Brown, tan, or gray with black spots or dark streaks.
Egg Sac: Females carry a flat, white, papery egg sac under their body.
Huntsman spiders are often confused with wolf spiders (hairier, ground-dwelling), banana spiders (brightly colored web-builders), or the brown recluse (rare in Florida, with a violin-shaped marking). Unlike the recluse, huntsman spiders pose minimal risk.
Are Huntsman Spiders Dangerous?
Despite their size, huntsman spiders are not dangerous to humans. Bites are rare and typically occur only if the spider is provoked, such as being handled or trapped. Symptoms include:
Mild, short-term pain (lasting minutes).
Minor redness or swelling.
Small puncture marks.
Studies show no serious allergic reactions or lasting damage from huntsman bites, unlike the brown recluse, which can cause tissue damage. If a bite causes persistent discomfort, consult a doctor, but most cases resolve quickly with a cold pack.
Huntsman spiders are beneficial, reducing pest populations by hunting insects. However, their startling appearance often leads homeowners to seek control measures.
How to Prevent Huntsman Spiders in Your Florida Home
Keeping huntsman spiders out involves cutting off their entry points, hiding spots, and food sources. Follow these expert tips from On Demand Pest Control:
Seal Entry Points
Huntsman spiders slip through tiny gaps due to their flat bodies. Check and seal:
Cracks around windows and doors with silicone caulk.
Gaps in utility lines or vents with weatherstripping.
Spaces under door sweeps.
Declutter Indoor Spaces
Garages, closets, and attics are huntsman hideouts. To deter them:
Clear cardboard boxes, old clothes, or unused items.
Store belongings in sealed plastic bins.
Vacuum corners and under furniture regularly.
Manage Outdoor Debris
Huntsman spiders lurk in woodpiles, leaf litter, or mulch near your home. Prevent this by:
Storing firewood off the ground, 20 feet from your house.
Raking leaves and clearing debris from your foundation.
Keeping mulch beds thin and well-maintained.
Reduce Their Food Supply
Huntsman spiders follow insects like cockroaches indoors. To starve them out:
Schedule regular pest control treatments to eliminate prey.
Keep kitchens clean, sealing food and wiping spills.
Empty trash frequently and use bins with tight lids.
Trim Vegetation
Overgrown landscaping provides spider hideouts. Maintain your yard by:
Trimming shrubs and trees away from your home’s exterior.
Removing loose tree bark or dense mulch near the foundation.
Raking mulch to keep it fresh and less inviting.
When to Call On Demand Pest Control
While huntsman spiders are harmless, their size and speed can be unsettling. If you’re seeing too many or dealing with other pests, On Demand Pest Control offers tailored solutions for Florida homes. Our family- and pet-friendly treatments target spiders and their prey, ensuring year-round protection. Contact us for a free pest control estimate and take back your home!
FAQs About Huntsman Spiders in Florida
Are huntsman spiders common in Florida?
Yes, especially in South Florida’s warm, humid climate, where they thrive in homes, garages, and yards.
What should I do if I find a huntsman spider in my house?
Gently trap it in a container and release it outside, or call On Demand Pest Control for professional removal.
Can huntsman spiders live in groups?
Some species, like Delena, are social and may cluster under bark or in crevices, but most are solitary.
How long do huntsman spiders live?
Most live about two years, with females guarding egg sacs for weeks without eating.
Do huntsman spiders jump?
They don’t jump but move quickly with their long legs, often startling people.
