A Guide to Africa’s Most Venomous Spiders
Introduction
Africa harbors some of the most biodiverse and unique wildlife found anywhere on Earth. However, among its impressive fauna are also several species of spiders that should not be underestimated due to their dangerous venom.
In this article, we will explore four of the continent’s most notorious spider inhabitants – profiling their identifying traits, habitat preferences, hunting strategies, and important safety information. Read on and watch the video to learn how to identify and avoid encounters with Africa’s deadly arachnids.
The Black Button Spider
The first species we will examine is the aptly named black button spider. As its common name suggests, this spider has an entirely glossy black exoskeleton that helps it blend into the darkness of its surroundings.
However, it can be differentiated from harmless rain spiders that share a similar coloration by the distinctive red hourglass marking located on its abdomen.
Found primarily in warmer, drier regions across southern Africa, the black button spider prefers habitats like old buildings, sheds, and garages – anywhere with dark, undisturbed spaces. It has been known to infiltrate human structures in search of prey.
This spider employs a deceptive hunting technique, slowly reeling in victims using a silk thread that appears harmless at first glance. Its venom contains neurotoxins capable of causing severe pain and swelling at the bite site. Proper medical treatment should always be sought if bitten.
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The Hairy Baboon Spider
Measuring up to 4 inches in diameter, the aptly named baboon spider is one of the largest spiders found on the continent. As its name implies, it has a thick covering of hair all over its legs and body that gives it a distinct monkey-like visage.
Another telltale feature is its prominent fangs which are visible even when its mouth is closed.
Unlike the button spider, baboon spiders prefer shadier, more humid habitats found in East Africa’s grasslands. It will construct tunnels underground and lie in wait for prey to wander close before ambushing with a lightning-fast strike.
Its potent venom acts as an effective weapon, capable of paralyzing small mammals and insects with just a single bite. Always exercise caution when disturbing areas like thick brush where these spiders may lurk.
The Six-eyed Sand Spider
Found exclusively within the desert ecosystems of southern Africa is the elusive six-eyed sand spider. As its name suggests, it possesses just six eyes rather than the usual eight seen in most spider species – an evolutionary trait that has allowed it to blend seamlessly into its sandy surroundings.
A master of camouflage, this tiny spider will bury itself entirely under the desert floor, leaving only its eyes exposed above the surface. Here it will lie in ambush for hours, perfectly still like just another grain of sand, waiting for unsuspecting prey to wander close enough to lunge out and envenomate.
Its venom is neurotoxic and can cause painful swelling if not treated promptly. Always be vigilant of your surroundings when trekking through desert environments.
The Golden Orb Weaver
The stunning golden orb weaver gets its name from the intricate golden spiral webs it constructs, which shimmer brightly like precious metal in the sunlight. Found across the forests and grasslands of Africa, these large webs are suspended at eye-level between trees and bushes to effectively catch flying insects and even small birds.
Sporting distinctive tufts of hair on its legs, the golden orb weaver is usually quite docile but will defend its web aggressively if threatened. Its venom is meant to immobilize rather than kill, allowing it to safely consume its living prey at a later time.