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Giant Crab Spider

Giant Crab Spider

Heteropoda venatoria

A species of Huntsman spiders, Also known as Pantropical huntsman spider, Huntsman spider

The giant Crab Spider is a large spider native to the tropics; the largest reported individual had a leg span of 30 cm. This cosmopolitan spider is highly valued in some areas, as it's able to catch cockroaches and other indoor pests. Reportedly, it hunts even scorpions and bats. This spider is venomous and sometimes bites humans, but it's considered harmless.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
General Info About Giant Crab Spider
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Attributes of Giant Crab Spider
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
White
Habitat
Woods and gardens on bark and house walls.
Adult Food Sources
Insects, crickets, cockroaches, moths, small lizards
Venomous
The Giant Crab Spider can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Giant Crab Spider typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Giant Crab Spider
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Giant Crab Spider
United States
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Predators of Adult Giant Crab Spider
Birds of prey, larger spiders, centipedes, scorpions, reptiles, mammals such as small carnivores
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Interesting Facts About Giant Crab Spider
Giant Crab Spider possess a distinctive crab-like gait and can move sideways as swiftly as they do forwards and backwards.
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Scientific Classification of Giant Crab Spider
Tips for Finding Giant Crab Spider
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Youth Habitat of Giant Crab Spider
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Caves and Subterranean Areas
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Adult Habitat of Giant Crab Spider
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Caves and Subterranean Areas
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Giant Crab Spider
Warm, humid conditions are ideal as giant Crab Spider prefers environments that replicate their natural tropical and subtropical habitats.
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How and Where Can You Find Giant Crab Spider at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile giant Crab Spider are smaller and can be found in similar locations to adults but may be more secretive. Search under loose bark, in leaf litter, or in the corners of window frames.
Adult Adult giant Crab Spider can be located by searching areas where their prey is abundant, such as near outdoor lighting that attracts insects at night. Look also in crevices and behind objects where they may hide during the day.
Are Giant Crab Spider harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Giant Crab Spider
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Toxic to Animals
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Bite Humans
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Toxic to Animals

Giant Crab Spider typically uses venom to subdue prey and defend against threats. This venom is delivered through fangs and varies in intensity. In juveniles and adults, the venom leads to mild discomfort in humans and can poison birds and small mammals. When insects are exposed, it can be lethal, affecting their nervous systems. Different animals experience varying degrees of symptoms based on factors like size and physiological sensitivity to the venom.

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Bite Humans

Giant Crab Spider generally avoids humans and is not known for biting. When they do, bites typically result from defensive reactions when threatened. The bite is executed with their fangs as a last resort, often causing only a mild and localized reaction.

More Effects of Giant Crab Spider

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