The Australian Reptile Park has urgently called on Australians to catch and donate funnel-web spiders for its life-saving antivenom program.
This year’s funnel-web season has been slower than usual, with fewer donations compared to previous years, which could lead to deadly consequences.
With autumn approaching and forecasts predicting above-average rainfall and humid conditions, which favor the spiders’ activity, there are concerns that funnel-webs will become more prevalent in Greater Sydney.
The Reptile Park is struggling to maintain a steady supply of venom to produce the antivenom that saves countless lives.
Australian Reptile Park Spider Keeper Emma Teni emphasized the importance of collecting as many funnel-web spiders as possible before the season ends.
“We’re the only place in Australia that collects venom for the antivenom program for funnel-webs,” she said, noting that since 1981, no fatalities have occurred due to funnel-web bites.
The park only milks male funnel-webs, as they contain the deadly venom required for the antivenom.
Teni explained that it takes 150 to 200 milkings to produce one vial of antivenom, stressing how vital it is for the public to donate these spiders.
People are advised to safely capture the spiders using a glass jar and a long-handled spoon, and then deliver them to the zoo or a designated drop-off location.
The recent discovery of three different species of funnel-web spiders in New South Wales does not affect the antivenom program, as it can treat bites from all species.
