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16 June 2013
| Last updated on 19 January 2020
Be Aware of Redback Spiders in the UAE
Every year, residents of the UAE report sightings of a little beast known as the Redback spider...
With a patch of bright red on its back, it's not easy to miss the Redback spider. But what are you supposed to do if you find one lurking in your garden or shed?
Scientifically known as 'latrodectus hasselti', the Redback spider may look friendly due to the colouring on its back. But don't be deceived, as this little spider is venomous.
As temperatures rise each year in the UAE, Redbacks take cover in plants, shade and untouched garden furniture so they can keep cool and multiply.
Over the years, many ExpatWoman readers have spotted the spider in different areas of the emirates.
While the Redback is native to Australia, it is thought they arrived in the UAE about 10 years ago.
The pictures here were provided by one EWer's husband, who found a mother and her nest nestled in some new plants bought for their garden. As you can see after a while, the nest began to hatch, and a large number of Redback babies emerged.
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While these photos show the Redback and her family nicely contained, please DO NOT attempt this yourself at home. Especially if you have young children and pets. It's always better to ring for assistance from the pros!
How to identify a red back spider
A Redback spider has a red mark on its back. Female Redback spiders have shiny black bodies, with an orange or red stripe on the upper abdomen. A female's body is about the size of a large pea. Makes are smaller and are brown. Their red markings are often pale. Redback spiders have long, thin legs.
SEE ALSO: Chat with other expats on our bustling forum
Why are Redback spiders dangerous?
Only the female Redback bite is dangerous. The poison can make people sick with sweating, vomiting and pain. The bite is highly venomous, and characterised by intense localised pain around the bite site. The swelling is generally limited to an area of several cm in radius from the bite site.
What to do if you or someone is bitten by a Redback spider?
Firstly, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY. Apply an ice pack to the bitten area to relieve pain. Do not apply a pressure bandage, as venom movement is slow and the pressure will worsen the pain. Collect the spider for positive identification.
