If this the first time you are hearing about the Brazilian wandering spider and you see its photo, we’re guessing that one of the first things that come to your mind is if the Brazilian wandering spider is poisonous or not.
Some spiders carry venom that can cause paralysis, nausea, vomiting and even death to their victims. Some spiders are hunters and don’t live weaving their own web. Others can also jump from one place to another. These are interesting characteristics that spiders possess which people must be aware of.
Known By Other Names
The Brazilian wandering spider, also known as the armed spider, is an active hunter mainly found in South America and Central America. It is mostly found in forest because it hides and lives in dark, moist places. It can be found in logs, boxes, or in even in the folds of old clothes and shoes.
Unlike like most other spiders, it doesn’t weave and live in webs. Instead, it spends its life wandering on the ground hunting for crickets, lizard, mice, and other small animals.
Appearance
The Brazilian wandering spider is sometimes mistaken for a tarantula because it is hairy and huge. It measures about one inch long with a leg span of up to five inches. Its colors are mostly yellow-brown with large stripes.
This spider attacks when it feels threatened, so take cover when you see its bodies lifted into an erect position with its frontal legs high up in the air. It does that when it is ready to strike.
A Very Poisonous Spider
The Guinness Book of World Records name the Brazilian wandering spider as the most poisonous spider in the world. Its bite is extremely painful because of its large fangs. Its venom contains toxins that can cause difficulty in breathing, loss or muscle control and even death. It is also known that the Brazilian wandering spider venom can also cause prolonged erection that can damage the penis of its male victims and now scientist are studying them to find a cure for erectile dysfunction.
First aid for a Brazilian wandering spider bite
When a person is bitten by a Brazilian wandering spider, don’t panic and give first aid remedy to spider bite:
- If one is bitten by this spider, have the victim lie down and be calm as possible to prevent the toxin from spreading rapidly throughout the victim’s body.
- It can also help to slow down the toxin by applying pressure (for example, putting a bandage) to the bitten area.
- Clean the wound with soap and water.
- Call the doctor immediately. If not treated or given anti-venom, the spider bite can cause death or serious injury to the victim.
So the next time you go camping in a forest, cleaning your house or even opening a box or banana bunches, be on the lookout for Brazilian wandering spiders. Be prepared with bandages including your doctor’s numbers and some anti-venom when someone you know is bitten by them.
Hello:) I have written a book in which I include a story about an encounter I had with a Brazilian Wandering Spider. The picture on your site is perfect for my story and I am requesting permission to use it in my book. Would it be ok if I use it? I will give you credit for the photo.