A man was left horrified after finding an African huntsman spider in his luggage at his Edinburgh home. The resident had recently returned from a work trip in Africa when he found the stowaway while unpacking at the property on Boswall Drive on Sunday, June 25.
The member of the public managed to contain the 10cm beastie in a plastic tub before calling the Scottish SPCA to come and collect it.
Huntsman spiders are known for their speed but despite their large size and menacing appearance, they are not generally considered to be particularly dangerous. They will usually flee from humans rather than trying to bite them and although they do have some venom, the effects of it are lower than average for an arachnid bite.
Rescue officers who examined the huntsman said they were relieved that it had been captured before having the chance to scurry off.
The animal was in a good condition, despite its long journey, and has now been taken to a rescue and rehoming centre to quarantine. Once it's safe to do so, the huntsman will then be sent down to Kent to "happily live out the rest of its life" with a specialist.
Scottish SPCA animal rescue officer, Catherine Atterton, said, “The spider was very fast, and about 10cm in size. Huntsman spiders are known for their speed and their ability to jump, so I was glad the member of the public had managed to contain the spider.
“We’ve been liaising with our contacts and have a home down in Kent lined up with a specialist where this huntsman can happily live out the rest of their life.
“We know a lot of people find spiders frightening but, to the Scottish SPCA, they’re just another animal who needs our help. If anyone finds an animal in distress they should call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 for help and advice.”
If anyone is concerned about an animal, contact the Scottish SPCA's confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999. To support the SSPCA by donating to the charity, click here.
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