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theguardian.com

Sydney's Funnel-Web Spider Roundup

The Australian Reptile Park is asking for public help in collecting funnel-web spiders to produce life-saving antivenom.

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English

United Kingdom

HealthLifestyleConservationWildlifeVenomSpiderAntivenom

Australian Reptile Park (Arp)Sydney Children’s Hospital Network

Emma TeniNicole WebberKaren WrightMatthew WrightHercules

How are the collected spiders used by the Australian Reptile Park?: The park's yearly callout encourages residents to check various locations like shoes, laundry, and gardens for the spiders and their egg sacs. Collected spiders and sacs are used to produce antivenom, which requires approximately 150 spiders per vial.
How can one identify a funnel-web spider and what should be done if bitten?: Funnel-web spiders are identifiable by their closely grouped eyes and glossy bodies. They are often mistaken for other spiders, but their size (males can reach up to 7.9cm) and preference for cool, damp areas can help with identification. First aid measures like pressure and immobilization are essential after any bite.
How have the antivenom program and the park's efforts impacted people's lives?: Nicole Webber and Karen Wright both credit the ARP's antivenom program with saving their lives after funnel-web bites. Their stories emphasize the program's effectiveness and the significance of public contribution to its success.
What conditions have led to an increase in funnel-web spider sightings this year?: Male funnel-web spiders have short lifespans, and their increased sightings are due to favorable weather conditions. The ARP is the sole supplier of funnel-web venom for antivenom production, highlighting the importance of public participation.
Why is the Australian Reptile Park asking the public to collect funnel-web spiders?: The Australian Reptile Park (ARP) is asking Sydneysiders to help collect funnel-web spiders and their egg sacs during breeding season. The venom from these spiders is crucial for producing antivenom, which has prevented deaths from funnel-web bites for four decades.

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