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Funnel-web spider

Funnel-web spider is a common name for several unrelated groups of spiders that build funnel-shaped webs or silk-lined burrows.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Funnel-web spider is a common name for several unrelated groups of spiders that build funnel-shaped webs or silk-lined burrows. The term is used especially for Australian funnel-web spiders in the family Atracidae, some of which are highly venomous to humans.

Name and classification

“Funnel-web spider” is a descriptive common name applied to several different spider groups that construct funnel-shaped webs. Sources note that these spiders are not all closely related, and popular usage can include different families or genera.

Australian funnel-web spiders

The Australian funnel-web spiders are a distinct group native to Australia, with 38 described species in three genera according to the Australian Museum. Britannica describes about 35 species in three genera, reflecting some differences in classification and publication timing. The three genera are Atrax, Hadronyche, and Illawarra. They are medium to large, with body lengths of about 1 cm to 5 cm.

Habitat and web structure

These spiders typically live in burrows or sheltered sites and make silk structures with a broad surface and a narrow funnel-like retreat. Their webs or burrows help them capture prey and remain hidden. The web type is a funnel-shaped web or silk-lined burrow.

Venom and human safety

Several Australian funnel-web species are medically significant, and bites can be dangerous without prompt treatment. The Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus) is the best-known dangerous species. Australian sources state that pressure immobilisation and hospital care are important first-aid steps, and antivenom has eliminated fatalities in the modern era.

Key facts

  • The name refers to the web shape, not a single spider lineage.
  • Australian funnel-web spiders are placed in three genera: Atrax, Hadronyche, and Illawarra.
  • Some species have venom that can cause severe illness or death in humans if untreated.
  • Not all spiders called funnel-web spiders are equally dangerous to people.
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Canadian context

Canadian readers may encounter the term in nature writing, pest-control articles, or museum education, but the most medically significant funnel-web spiders are native to Australia rather than Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is a funnel-web spider?
It is a spider that makes a funnel-shaped web or silk-lined burrow; the name is used for several different spider groups, not one species.
Are all funnel-web spiders dangerous?
No. Some species are harmless to humans, while others have medically significant venom and can cause severe illness.
How many Australian funnel-web spider species are there?
The Australian Museum lists 38 described species in three genera. Britannica gives about 35 species in three genera.
Where do Australian funnel-web spiders live?
They are native to eastern and southern Australia, with records extending through moist, sheltered habitats.
What makes their web distinctive?
Their web usually has a flat or open area for trapping prey and a narrow funnel-like tube leading to a retreat or burrow.
What is the best-known dangerous species?
The Sydney funnel-web spider, Atrax robustus, is the best-known species associated with medically significant bites.

References

  1. Live Science — https://www.livescience.com/41515-funnel-web-spiders.html
    Supports: General explanation that funnel-web spiders are named for funnel-shaped webs and that multiple unrelated groups are called by this common name.
  2. Australian Museum — https://australian.museum/learn/animals/spiders/funnel-web-spiders-group/
    Supports: Australian funnel-web spiders: 38 described species, three genera, and body size range.
  3. Wildlife Nomads — https://www.wildlifenomads.com/blog/facts-australian-funnel-web-spider/
    Supports: Australian funnel-web spiders are endemic to Australia and web/burrow description.
  4. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/Australian-funnel-web-spider
    Supports: Family Atracidae, about 35 species in three genera, native to southern and eastern Australia, and funnel-shaped webs.
  5. Australian Museum — https://www.australian.museum/learn/animals/spiders/sydney-funnel-web-spider/
    Supports: Dangerous bite, venom effects, and antivenom/first-aid context for Sydney funnel-web spider.
  6. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sydney_funnel-web_spider
    Supports: Native range and general identification details for Atrax robustus; used cautiously as secondary support only.