SA’s most common Rain Spiders

SA’s most common rain spiders that are found in and around the home come from the genus Palystes and the most common of this genus found is that of the Palystes superciliosus and Palystes castaneus. Although there are 17 different species of rain spiders that can be found in South Africa, the other species are smaller and generally aren’t seen as often. Many people kill these spiders on sight as they fear that they may be poisonous, however rain spiders, also known as huntsman spiders, are not poisonous and for those who are interested in spiders, are often kept a pet. So if you are unsure if the spider is a rain spider or something more dangerous, then why not look online for pictures before you go and kill something that is in essence harmless.

The average size of one of SA’s most common rain spiders is between 15mm and 40mm, however this is omitting the spider’s leg span which can span up to 100mm. Rain spiders are nocturnal and live in vegetation rather than build webs which means they should they come inside to hunt for insects attracted to the lights, they will most likely leave again to return to the shrubbery outside. It has also been said that these beautiful arachnids only bite when provoked and are harmless if you leave them be. However should you be bitten by a rain spider, it is said to be about as painful as being stung by a bee. However, do to the fact that they get quite aggressive when provoked, biting at anything brought close enough to them, they are generally killed. This is a sad fact as because these spiders are possibly some the best insect controllers.

These huntsman spiders are also great weather predictors as they most commonly come inside to look for shelter just before it rains. So why not enjoy these beautiful creatures as they are both fantastic weather predictors as well as insect hunters. They are not poisonous and only bite when provoked which also makes them ideal pets for those who love them. There are also hundreds of pictures online to help you identify SA’s most common rain spiders.

You may also be interested in:

1. Rain Spiders in South Africa
2. Are Rain Spiders in South Africa Poisonous?
3. South African Rain Spiders