Spiders in Barbados

Barbados is an island in the eastern Caribbean that is renowned for its exceptional tourist attractions and incredible year-round activities. However, before making your trip to Barbados, you must be well-informed of what could possibly wait for you on the island. It includes not only the beautiful, but the not-so-beautiful such as creepy crawlers like spiders. Most spiders are harmless but be wary as there are also dangerous spiders in Barbados. Stay informed for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Spiders in Barbados Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in Barbados

Biggest Spiders in Barbados

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Barbados

Common House Spiders

Garden Orb-Weaving Spider

Harvestman Spider (Phalangium Opilio)

Biggest Spiders in Barbados

Black House Spiders (Badumna insignis)

Trap Door Spider (Misgolas rapax)

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Most Venomous Spiders

Funnel Web Spiders

Northern Tree Funnel-web (Hadronyche formidabilis) - The Northern Tree Funnel-web spider is native to Australia and is part of the mygalomorph spider group. Known for its high venom level, it's considered one of the world's deadliest spiders.… Continue Reading >

Actinopodidae

Red Headed Mouse Spider – Missulena occatoria

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasseltii) - The Redback spider, often called the Australian black widow, comes from places in Australia. Nowadays, you can find it all over Australia and even in New Zealand.… Continue Reading >

White-Tailed Spider (Lamponidae)

White-tailed (Lampona cylindrata & Lampona murina) - Discover the intriguing world of the white-tailed spider, known scientifically as Lampona murina and Lampona cylindrata. Both these spiders hail from the Lampona genus, which means ‘to shine’.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Cellar Spiders

Long Bodied Cellar (Pholcus phalangioides) - The long-bodied cellar spiders are quite interesting! Often seen in America's dark and damp spots, they have really long legs. This is why some folks call them daddy-long-legs.… Continue Reading >

Orb-Weaver Spiders

St. Andrews Cross (Argiope keyserlingi) - Did you know there's a spider named after a cross pattern? It's called the St. Andrews Cross spider. This spider lives in Australia and makes a web that looks like a special cross.… Continue Reading >

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any dangerous spiders in Barbados?

Yes, Barbados is home to several venomous spiders that can be considered dangerous, including the Funnel Web and the Red Headed Mouse Spider. While most local spiders are harmless, it is important for visitors and residents to be aware of these species and exercise caution, especially in gardens or sheds.

What is the most common spider found inside houses in Barbados?

The most common spiders found inside houses in Barbados are typically the Common House Spider and the Cellar Spider. These species are generally harmless to humans and thrive in quiet, undisturbed areas like corners, basements, and closets. They are known for building tangled, messy webs to catch small insects.

How can you identify a Red Headed Mouse Spider in Barbados?

You can identify a Red Headed Mouse Spider by its distinct coloration. This spider, *Missulena occatoria*, typically has a bright red or orange-red head and thorax area, contrasted with a dark, glossy black or blue-black abdomen. Their fangs are also quite prominent, making them relatively easy to distinguish.

Is the Funnel Web Spider in Barbados venomous?

Yes, the Funnel Web Spider found in Barbados is considered highly venomous. Its bite can be medically significant, and it is regarded as one of the most dangerous spiders on the island. If you encounter one, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid any direct contact.

What kind of spider builds large, circular webs in Barbadian gardens?

The Garden Orb-Weaving Spider is responsible for the large, classic, wheel-shaped webs commonly seen in gardens across Barbados. These spiders are nocturnal, building their intricate traps at night to catch flying insects. Despite their sometimes intimidating size, they are generally non-aggressive and beneficial for pest control.

Where are you most likely to find a Trap Door Spider in Barbados?

You are most likely to find a Trap Door Spider in a burrow in the ground, often in gardens or undisturbed natural soil. These spiders are masters of camouflage, creating a hinged lid of silk and earth to conceal their homes. They are reclusive and rarely seen above ground.

Are White-Tailed Spiders in Barbados a cause for concern?

Yes, the White-Tailed Spider in Barbados can be a cause for concern as it is venomous. While its bite was once controversially linked to severe skin ulcerations, this is now largely unsubstantiated. However, a bite can still be painful, and professional medical advice should be sought if symptoms persist.

Spiders in Barbados

Common Spiders in Barbados

Biggest Spiders in Barbados