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Huntsman spider

Heteropoda cf. venatoria, Family: Sparassidae

 

Heteropoda venatoria is a species of spider in the family Sparassidae, the huntsman spiders. It is native to the tropical regions of the world, and it is present in some subtropical areas as an introduced species. Its common names include giant crab spider and cane spider

 

The spider feeds on insects, capturing them directly instead of spinning webs. It injects them with venom. In some tropical areas the spider is considered a useful resident of households because of its efficient consumption of pest insects. It commonly lives in houses and other structures such as barns and sheds, especially in areas that experience cold temperatures. It is sensitive to cold and can live outdoors only in warmer climates.

 

Besides insects it has been known to prey on scorpions and bats. The spider is not considered dangerous, but it does deliver enough venom to give a painful bite

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Uploaded on February 12, 2016
Taken on October 24, 2015