Grey Huntsman Spider (Holoconia immanis): As with many out-of
town properties we have a shed that is used for storing 30 years accumulated
debris, a workshop etc. Local wildlife often visits our shed. Swallows try to
build nests, Noisy Scrub Wrens visit hunting for lunch and various wasp
species build mud or paper nests. There are also some permanent residents.
Hiding amongst our books, papers and sundry items are large spiders. Many Grey
Huntsman spiders now call our shed home. They have grey heads and abdomens,
white markings on their legs and a dagger-like marking on their bodies.
Including their legs some specimens are almost as big as a saucer. Although
harmless they tend to cause consternation when they are disturbed. Grey
Huntsman rest during the day and seek their prey during the night. They often
return to the same place to rest during the day. One spider has returned to
the same place every day for three weeks. Females produce large egg sacs
(illustrated) containing hundreds of eggs. The furry material on this egg sac
is spider skin. After hatching the baby spiders shed their skins almost
immediately. Grey Huntsmen are part of the rich wildlife tapestry that shares Yallaroo with
us.