After devastating fires that killed 29 people and burned millions of hectares, floods sometimes associated with hailstones, and dust and sand storms, Australia is facing a new threat:funnel-web spiders.
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A favourable climate for their development
This accumulation of extreme weather events has deeply traumatized Australians, but it is not over yet. Experts have warned people about the proliferation of funnel-web spidersbecause of the 'perfect conditions' created by recent events.
Native to the rainforests of eastern Australia, these spiders are notorious for their highly toxic and potentially deadly venom. In a video posted on Facebook, Daniel Rumsey, spokesperson for the Australian Reptile Park, said spider activity has increased in recent days:
'Because of the recent rain and the hot days we are now experiencing, funnel-web spiders will start to move around more.'
'They can go into houses'
The risks are therefore real for human beings. Due to the very dry weather over the last few months, the 'spider season' has arrived late compared to other years. This explains their current proliferation.
Warren Bailey, owner of ABC Pest Control Sydney, told CNN that
'their venom is toxic enough to kill someone.' This is a constant danger because 'the funnel web spiders have now come out with the recent rains and they can enter people's homes on the ground or from the roof.' Worrisome...
