Identification
Physical Characteristics
Size: This is a small spider. The body length of adults ranges from 5mm to 7mm. Males and females are of a similar size, which is less common in spiders.
Coloration: The coloration is the most striking feature. The cephalothorax and abdomen are typically black with bold white markings. These often include white lines radiating from the centre of the cephalothorax and a pattern of white spots and stripes on the abdomen. The rear six legs are usually banded in black and pale brown or white. The front two pairs of legs are the most distinctive, being a vibrant orange, yellow, or reddish colour, which starkly contrasts with the rest of the body. This 'painted' appearance gives the spider its name.
Key Features: The unmistakable colour pattern is the key distinguishing feature: a black body with bold white markings and bright orange or yellow front legs. Their rapid, jerky, day-active movement is another strong behavioural identifier. They are often seen running on paths, walls, and foliage in full sunlight.
Biology & Lifecycle
Development & Reproduction
Reproduction Rate: A female may produce one or more egg sacs during the warmer months, each containing a relatively small number of eggs (perhaps 20-40) compared to larger spiders.
Lifecycle Details
Egg Stage
After mating, the female constructs a small, flattened, disc-shaped egg sac made of white silk. She typically attaches this sac to a flat surface in a protected location, such as under a rock, beneath tree bark, or on the underside of a broad leaf. The egg sac is often camouflaged with small particles of dirt or debris. The female will guard the sac for a period before leaving it.
Larval Stage
Spiders do not have a larval stage.
Pupal Stage
Spiders do not undergo pupation.
Adult Stage
Spiderlings hatch and disperse to begin their lives as independent hunters. They are active during the day from a very young age. They grow by shedding their skin multiple times until they reach adult size. The typical lifespan is thought to be around one year, consistent with many other small, active spider species.
Reproduction Rate
A female may produce one or more egg sacs during the warmer months, each containing a relatively small number of eggs (perhaps 20-40) compared to larger spiders.
Generations Per Year
It is likely that one or possibly two generations are produced per year, especially in the warmer, northern parts of their range.
Development Time
Development from egg to adult likely takes several months, with the rate being fastest during the warm, sunny periods of spring and summer when insect prey is most abundant.
Seasonal Cycle
They are most visible and active from spring through to late autumn. Hunting, growth, and reproduction all occur during these warmer months. During winter, they enter a period of inactivity (diapause), hiding in sheltered spots until the warmth returns in spring.
Environmental Factors
Their populations are supported by habitats that offer a mosaic of open, sunny areas for hunting and sheltered places like leaf litter and rocks for resting and egg-laying. A healthy population of small insects is also crucial.
Habitat & Distribution
Preferred Habitats
- Open, sunny areas in gardens, parks, and woodlands.
- Commonly seen on sun-drenched paths, rock walls, and fences.
- Low foliage, leaf litter, and under rocks.
- They are frequently found in suburban backyards that provide a mix of open ground and shelter.
- Dry sclerophyll forests and heathlands.
Distribution Patterns
Australian Distribution
Widespread across the entire continent, including Tasmania. It is found in suitable habitats in all Australian states and territories.
Climate Zones
- Tropical
- Subtropical
- Temperate
- Arid
- Mediterranean
Urban vs Rural Distribution
Equally at home in natural bushland and suburban gardens. Their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in human-modified landscapes across Australia.
Native Range
Nyssus coloripes is native to Australia.
Introduced Range
Not applicable.
Introduction History
Not applicable.
Current Spread
A stable and ubiquitous species throughout Australia.
Limiting Factors
There are few limiting factors for this highly adaptable species, though they would be absent from the most extreme environments like snow-covered alpine peaks.
Behavior & Diet
Activity Pattern
Diurnal. The Painted Swift Spider is unusual among spiders in that it is most active during the day, particularly in bright sunshine. It uses its good vision to hunt. Its quick, darting movements across sunlit surfaces are characteristic.
Dietary Preferences
Feeding Habits
A carnivorous hunter that actively pursues its prey during the day.
Health Risks
Always consult healthcare professionals for medical concerns related to pest exposure.
Disease Transmission
- They do not transmit any diseases.
Allergens and Respiratory Issues
Allergic reactions are not associated with this spider.
Contamination Risk
None. They do not infest homes or contaminate food.
Vulnerable Populations
- None. There is no physical health risk to any group of people.
Symptoms of Exposure
- A bite from this small spider is incredibly unlikely and would probably be incapable of piercing human skin.
- In the theoretical event of a successful bite, the symptoms would be trivial and limited to a tiny, itchy red dot, if anything at all.
- No medical attention would ever be required.
Transmission Methods
- No significant risk of venom transmission to humans.
Risk Severity
Low. This species is considered completely harmless to humans.
Economic Impact
Treatment Costs
Professional Treatment
$0. Professional treatment is never required.
Prevention Costs
$0.
Diy Treatment
$0. Control is unnecessary and discouraged.
Property Damage
Structural Damage
None.
Garden Damage
None. They are beneficial to gardens.
Food Contamination
None.
Equipment Damage
None.
Business Impact
Restaurant Issues
None.
Retail Impact
None.
Reputation Damage
None.
Operational Disruption
None.
Agricultural Impact
Crop Damage
None.
Yield Loss
None.
Beneficial Aspects
As a predator of small insects, they contribute positively to the ecosystem of gardens and potentially agricultural land, helping to control minor pests.
Economic Loss
Provides a minor net economic benefit through its predatory activities. There is no economic loss.
Indirect Costs
Healthcare Costs
None.
Cleanup Costs
None.
Replacement Costs
None.
Detection & Signs
Visual Signs
- Direct sighting of the spiders themselves is the only real sign.
- They do not create infestations. Finding one is simply an observation of local wildlife.
- You may see them running across paths, patios, external walls, or hunting in garden beds during the day.
Physical Evidence
- There is no physical evidence left behind. They do not build webs or leave noticeable retreats or droppings.
Behavioral Signs
- Observing a small spider hunting with fast, jerky movements in the sunshine is the key behavioural sign.
Seasonal Indicators
- Sightings are most common during the warmer months, from spring through to autumn, when they are actively hunting and mating.
Early Warning Signals
- Not applicable, as they are not a pest species and do not 'infest' a location.
Prevention
Sanitation Measures
- No specific sanitation measures are required. Their presence is unrelated to hygiene.
Exclusion Methods
- Standard pest exclusion methods like sealing cracks and ensuring screens are intact will prevent them from wandering inside, but this is usually unnecessary.
- They are not actively trying to get into houses, so any indoor presence is accidental.
Landscaping Tips
- No landscaping changes are needed. A healthy garden with leaf litter and rocks will provide a good habitat for them, which is beneficial.
- Their presence is a sign of a healthy garden.
Monitoring Strategies
- No monitoring is required. Simply enjoy watching them if you spot one in your garden.
Environmental Modification
- No modifications are needed. Co-existence is the recommended approach.
Control Methods
Professional Treatment Methods
Chemical Control
Never warranted, necessary, or recommended. It would be an irresponsible use of pesticides to target this harmless, beneficial spider.
Biological Control
Not applicable.
Physical Control
If one is inside and you wish to remove it, the 'glass and card' method is effective. Due to their speed, this may be challenging.
Integrated Approach
The only appropriate approach is to leave them be in the garden.
DIY Treatment Options
Natural Remedies
Co-existence is the best natural remedy.
Home Made Traps
Not necessary.
Deterrent Methods
Not needed.
Mechanical Control
If you must remove one from inside, gently guiding it into a container is the best method.
Treatment Effectiveness
Success Rate
Not applicable.
Timeframe
Not applicable.
Follow Up Required
Not applicable.
Seasonal Considerations
Not applicable.
Application Techniques
- The best technique is appreciation of a unique and beautiful native spider.
Professional Services
Professional Treatment Services
Chemical Control
Never warranted, necessary, or recommended. It would be an irresponsible use of pesticides to target this harmless, beneficial spider.
Biological Control
Not applicable.
Physical Control
If one is inside and you wish to remove it, the 'glass and card' method is effective. Due to their speed, this may be challenging.
Integrated Approach
The only appropriate approach is to leave them be in the garden.
Professional Treatment Costs
$0. Professional treatment is never required.
Treatment Success Rates
Not applicable.
Treatment Timeframe
Not applicable.
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Browse All ProvidersSeasonal Patterns
Spring Activity
Spiders emerge from their winter shelters and become active. Young spiders grow rapidly with the increasing abundance of small insects.
Summer Activity
This is the peak of their activity. They are highly visible on warm, sunny days, actively hunting, feeding, and mating.
Autumn Activity
Activity continues, but may lessen as temperatures begin to cool. Females lay their eggs during this time.
Winter Activity
They become dormant, seeking shelter from the cold in cracks, under rocks, or in leaf litter. They are not seen during winter.
Breeding Season
Primarily during the summer months.
Peak Activity Period
Not applicable. Peak sightings occur during summer.
Environmental Factors
Temperature Effects
Sunlight and warmth are crucial triggers for their daily activity.
Humidity Effects
They are adaptable to various humidity levels.
Photoperiod Effects
Their diurnal nature means their activity is confined to daylight hours.
Weather Patterns
They will be inactive and take shelter during rainy or overcast weather.
Legal Considerations
Pest Status
Not considered a pest. It is a harmless and beneficial native species.
Control Regulations
None. The use of pesticides against this species is discouraged as poor environmental practice.
Professional Requirements
None.
Environmental Considerations
This spider is part of Australia's native biodiversity and plays a role in the food web. Its conservation should be encouraged.
Compliance Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Painted Swift Spiders poisonous?
No, Painted Swift Spiders are not considered poisonous or dangerous to humans in any way. Like almost all spiders, they do possess venom, but it is specifically adapted for subduing their tiny insect prey. Their fangs are extremely small and likely incapable of penetrating human skin. Furthermore, they are incredibly timid and fast, and their universal response to a human presence is to flee instantly. There are no recorded cases of a bite from this species causing any significant reaction. You can observe and appreciate this colourful spider in your garden with complete confidence that it poses no threat to you, your children, or your pets.
What does it mean if I see a Painted Swift Spider in my house?
Seeing a Painted Swift Spider inside your house is almost always an accident on the spider's part. As active, ground-dwelling hunters, they cover a lot of territory, and an open door or a small gap can be an unintentional entry point. They are not an 'indoor' species and have no reason to infest a home. Finding one inside simply means your garden has a healthy ecosystem that supports them. It does not indicate a pest problem or an infestation. The spider will likely be trying to find its way back outside to its preferred sunny hunting grounds. If you wish, you can gently trap it under a glass and release it back into the garden.
Why does this spider have such bright colours?
The striking colouration of the Painted Swift Spider likely serves multiple purposes. The bold black-and-white pattern on the body may act as disruptive camouflage, breaking up the spider's outline and making it harder for predators like birds to recognise as prey. The bright orange or red on the front legs is a form of aposematism, or warning colouration. While the spider is harmless, these bright colours may startle or deter a potential predator, making it hesitate for a crucial second, allowing the spider to escape. The colours might also play a role in communication between spiders, helping them to recognise members of their own species during courtship rituals.
What do Painted Swift Spiders eat?
Painted Swift Spiders are beneficial garden predators that eat a variety of small invertebrates. Being small themselves, their prey is also small. Their diet consists mainly of insects like ants, small flies, gnats, and insect larvae that they find on the ground or on low plants. They are also known to eat other small spiders. Because they are active during the day, they prey on a different suite of insects than nocturnal spiders, complementing the pest control services in your garden. By controlling populations of ants and other small, nuisance insects, they play a valuable role in maintaining a balanced garden ecosystem.
How can I tell it's a Painted Swift Spider and not a Jumping Spider?
This is a common point of confusion as both are small, day-active hunters. The easiest way to tell is by looking at their face and their movement. A Jumping Spider has a very distinct, flat-faced, rectangular look with a pair of huge, forward-facing eyes that give it an intelligent, curious appearance. They move with a deliberate, calculated pounce or 'jump'. The Painted Swift Spider, while having good vision, has much smaller, less obvious eyes. Its body is more slender and its movement is a frantic, jerky run rather than a jump. And of course, the colour pattern is the biggest giveaway: if it has bright orange front legs and a black-and-white body, it is definitively a Painted Swift Spider.
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Image Gallery
Images of Painted Swift Spider showing key identifying features: