Giant Spiders Spread Across Austrian Regions
Over the last two months, experts recorded more than 200 reports of South Russian tarantulas and southern lycosid spiders appearing across regions of Austria where they had not previously been documented, tn.nova.cz reported. Two large spider species are spreading rapidly through the country. One is the Tartarian spider, known more commonly as the South Russian tarantula (Lycosa singoriensis), which reaches body lengths of up to 4 centimeters and ranks among Central Europe’s largest spiders. The second is the southern lycosid spider (Hogna radiata), which grows to a body length of 2.5 centimeters.
Reports of sightings have surged in recent weeks. The citizen science platform Naturbeobachtung logged over 200 encounters, with experts confirming 175 of them. Most individuals turned up in Styria, Lower Austria, and Burgenland, according to data highlighted by the portal Heute.
Unusual Sightings in Lower Austria
Sightings are pushing further than previous boundaries. Carolina Trcka-Rojasová of the Austrian Nature Conservation Union (NABU) told the newspaper Der Standard about a notable find far to the northwest. An especially exciting observation of the South Russian tarantula occurred near Tulln in Lower Austria, a region that previously recorded zero sightings of the species.
These spiders emerge most frequently during the autumn months. The southern lycosid spider targets warm, dry habitats featuring sparse vegetation alongside sandy or stony soils. Austria marks the northern edge of the natural range for this Mediterranean species.
Capture Indoor Spiders Safely Under Glass
Despite triggering fear and commanding respect from residents, neither species poses a danger to humans. Experts emphasize that individuals should avoid harming the animals. Anyone who discovers one of these spiders inside a home should capture it safely beneath a glass or similar container and release it outdoors.
Common Questions About Austria’s Large Spiders
Are South Russian tarantulas and southern lycosid spiders venomous to humans?
Neither species poses a danger to humans, according to wildlife experts.
Where exactly have most of these spiders been found?
The majority of confirmed sightings were recorded in Styria, Lower Austria, and Burgenland. An unusual outlier sighting occurred further northwest near Tulln in Lower Austria.
What should you do if you find one of these spiders inside your house?
Experts advise against harming the animals under any circumstances. The recommended approach is to place a glass or similar container over the spider and carry it outside to release it.
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