Arachnid Adversaries: 12 Surprising Huntsman Spider Predators

Huntsman spiders, known for their impressive size and speed, are formidable predators in their own right. But in the wild, even these agile arachnids have their natural enemies. From tiny insects to larger mammals, here are 12 brave creatures that turn the tables on these eight-legged hunters.

Praying Mantises

These patient predators are masters of camouflage and lightning-fast strikes. Praying mantises use their powerful forearms to snatch huntsman spiders mid-stride. Their excellent vision helps them spot the speedy spiders, while their strong mandibles make quick work of their prey. Some larger mantis species can even take down huntsman spiders bigger than themselves.

Scorpions

In the arachnid world, scorpions often come out on top in battles with huntsman spiders. Armed with powerful pincers and a venomous stinger, scorpions are well-equipped for the fight. They use their pincers to grab and hold the spider, then deliver a paralyzing sting. Scorpions can then take their time feasting on their immobilized prey.

Centipedes

These many-legged hunters are swift and venomous, making them dangerous foes for huntsman spiders. Centipedes use their speed to chase down the spiders, then inject them with paralyzing venom. Their numerous legs give them excellent grip, allowing them to tackle spiders on various surfaces. Some larger centipede species can even take on full-grown huntsman spiders.

Geckos

These nimble lizards are well-adapted to hunting spiders. Geckos use their excellent night vision and quick reflexes to catch huntsman spiders unawares. Their sticky toe pads allow them to pursue spiders across walls and ceilings. Geckos swallow their prey whole, using their strong jaws to crush the spider’s exoskeleton.

Birds

Many bird species view huntsman spiders as a tasty snack. Birds like magpies, crows, and kookaburras use their sharp eyesight to spot the spiders. They swoop down quickly, using their beaks to snatch up the spider before it can escape. Some birds even learn to seek out huntsman spiders in their typical hiding spots.

Wasps

Certain wasp species specialize in hunting spiders, including huntsman spiders. These wasps paralyze the spider with a precise sting, then drag it back to their nest. The paralyzed spider serves as a living food source for the wasp’s larvae. Some wasps can take on huntsman spiders much larger than themselves.

Frogs and Toads

While it might seem surprising, some frog and toad species aren’t afraid to take on huntsman spiders. These amphibians use their long, sticky tongues to catch the spiders from a distance. Their wide mouths allow them to swallow even large huntsman spiders whole. Some frogs have even developed resistance to spider venom.

Snakes

Several snake species include huntsman spiders in their diet. These serpents use their excellent sense of smell to locate the spiders. Snakes like the brown tree snake can climb walls to reach huntsman spiders in their hiding spots. They use their flexible jaws to swallow the spiders whole, spiny legs and all.

Cats

Our feline friends, both wild and domestic, often hunt huntsman spiders. Cats use their keen senses and quick reflexes to catch these speedy arachnids. Their sharp claws can snag a spider mid-run, while their teeth make short work of the prey. Many cat owners have found their pets presenting them with “gifts” of dead huntsman spiders.

Tarantula Hawks

Despite their name, tarantula hawks are actually large wasps that specialize in hunting spiders. These wasps have one of the most painful stings in the insect world. They use this sting to paralyze huntsman spiders, then drag them back to their burrows as food for their larvae. The wasp’s larvae slowly eat the paralyzed spider alive.

Redback Spiders

n a twist of spider-eat-spider, redback spiders sometimes prey on huntsman spiders. Redbacks use their strong webs to trap the usually faster huntsman spiders. Once caught, the redback injects its potent venom, quickly subduing its larger cousin. This shows that in nature, size isn’t always an advantage.

Humans

While not natural predators, humans often kill huntsman spiders out of fear or for pest control. People use various methods, from simple squashing to chemical sprays. However, many experts encourage coexistence, as huntsman spiders help control other household pests. Some brave souls even keep huntsman spiders as unusual pets.

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