There are at least 15 species of spiders known in Hawaii. Spiders live in crevices, rotten wood, gardens, forests. Very few are known to bite and harm people. They are generally harmless to humans and feed on other insects and invertebrates.
Some of the spiders that are found in Hawaii include Argiope aurantia (Black and Yellow Garden Spider), Argiope trifasciata (Six-spotted Fishing Spider), Parasteatoda tepidariorum (Common House Spider), Pholcus phalangioides (Longbodied Cellar Spider), Salticus scenicus (Zebra Jumper), Steatoda grossa (False Black Widow).
One of the most common is the Heteropoda venatoria cane spider (also known as brown spider), which is shy and harmless. They have three-inch (7.6 cm) leg spans but can grow even bigger than that. They are generally found outdoors but may find their way into houses. They look brown and hairy and will only bite if provoked. The bite is small and usually does not result in any long term problems.
Also seen in Hawaii is the Latrodectus mactans (Southern Black Widow), and the Latrodectus geometricus (Brown Widow Spider). Their bites are dangerous and require a visit to the doctor. The brown widow is a little smaller than the black widow and its venom is twice as potent as the black widow’s venom. However, brown widows don’t inject as much venom, are more timid and don’t tend to defend their web.
Another common spider seen on the islands is the Phidippus audax (Bold or Daring Jumping Spider), which measures only a half inch in size. It might look harmless, but its bite is painful and may produce redness, swelling and blistering.
The Brown recluse spider has not been documented as an established inhabitant of the Hawaiian Islands.
Symptoms associated with spider bites vary from mild to severe. Rarely death can occur from severe bites. Symptoms include;
- Itching or rash
- Pain radiating from the site of the bite
- Muscle pain or cramping
- Reddish to purplish color or blister
- Increased sweating
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety or restlessness
- High blood pressure
Spider bites may occur when humans come into direct contact with spiders when working in the garden, outdoors and around the home.
Diagnosis of spider bite is based on recent history and signs and symptoms. Specific diagnosis may be difficult to confirm without seeing the spider bit. Confirmation requires identification of the spider, seeing the spider bite the individual and exclusion of other possible sources.
Wash the bite area with soap and water. Apply sterile clean dressing and a cold compress to reduce the swelling. Identify the type of spider if possible. Monitor the bite for signs of infection and seek medical attention if necessary. A tetanus booster may be recommended if you haven’t had one in the past 5 years.
There is no immunity to spider bites.
- To reduce the number of spiders near your home; seal any cracks and openings and install window screens.
- Remove spider webs around your home.
- Wear protective clothing such as long covered sleeves, long pants, hats, gloves and boots when handling piles of materials, lumber and rocks, etc..
- Eliminate tall grasses and reduce debris and rubble from outdoor work areas.
- Inspect and shake out clothing and shoes before getting dressed.