Red-back Spider
Latrodectus hasselti
An adult red-back spider often builds an irregular, sticky web in dry sheltered places such as logs, sheds, outdoor furniture, and crevices. It waits in the web for insects and other small animals, then bites and wraps prey in silk. The female is much larger than the male and is known for the red stripe or mark on the black abdomen. Its medically significant venom is the species’ most famous defence and hunting tool.
- Type
- Venom / Stealth
- Conservation status
- NE