Holconia immanis
Description
The Huntsman is one of the largest spiders in Australia and is found throughout the east coast. Females can reach up to 50mm in diameter, while the males are smaller in size. They are a common sight in woodland areas where they hide under loose bark or wood. They are quite common in woodland areas where they hide under loose bark or on wood associated with buildings. They are easily recognised by their size, the grey body and a short dark brown stripe (sometimes described as a dagger shape) on the abdomen.
Adaptations
- Female huntsmans construct an egg sack under bark and stay to protect it from predators
- Use their good eyesight to ambush prey
Feeding relationships
- What I eat: insects, other spiders, small lizards
- What eats me: some wasps, birds (e.g. kookaburra), geckoes
Interesting facts
The Huntsman spider was accidentally introduced to New Zealand
Acknowledgements: Australian Insects, James Cook University, Australian Museum, Backyard Buddies