Photos of large spiders found in gardens, yards, and even houses are appearing more and more often on Slovak social media. The posts cause lively discussions: some panic, some joke, but almost everyone is surprised by the size of these "guests." Let's find out what unusual spiders live in Slovakia and if they are really dangerous.
Slovak "Tarantula": Meet the Strehúň
The largest spider in Slovakia, which causes the most surprise, is the Strehúň tatársky (Lycosa singoriensis). It is often mistaken for a tarantula because of its significant size – its leg span can reach 7 centimeters. The body is covered in dense gray hairs, which gives it a frightening appearance.
This species prefers warm, sunny places and lives mainly in underground burrows. It is most often found in the Danubian Lowland area.
▪️ Is it dangerous? Despite its fearsome appearance, its venom is not dangerous to humans. A bite can be painful, like a bee sting, but it will not cause serious consequences. The spider is not aggressive and will only bite in self-defense, for example, if stepped on or if someone tries to pick it up. Moreover, the Strehúň is a protected species in Slovakia.
Real Danger: Small but Venomous
A much more serious threat is another species – Pradiarka pestrá (Cheiracanthium punctorium). This is the most venomous spider in Slovakia. It is much smaller than the Strehúň, up to 1.5 cm, but its bite can lead to serious problems.
The venom of this spider attacks the nervous system. The bite is very painful, similar to a hornet's sting, and can cause:
Severe swelling and redness
Fever
Difficulty breathing
Numbness in the limbs and severe pain spreading through the body
A few years ago, a case was recorded in Stupava where a woman had to be hospitalized after being bitten by this spider. Her entire arm started to go numb, and then her legs too. The symptoms only disappeared after several hours in the hospital. These spiders become most aggressive at the end of summer when the females are guarding their egg cocoons.
What to Do When You Encounter a Spider
Do not panic and keep your distance. Do not try to kill or catch the spider. Most of them will only bite if they feel directly threatened.
Let it go. If the spider is outside, it will most likely disappear on its own.
If the spider is inside the house, try to carefully cover it with a jar, slide a piece of paper underneath it, and take it outside. If you cannot do this safely, you can contact professional pest control services (deratizácia).
What to Do If You Are Bitten
1️⃣ Stay calm. If possible, take a photo of the spider for identification.
2️⃣ Wash the bite area with soap and water.
3️⃣ Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
4️⃣ Monitor your symptoms. In case of severe pain, significant swelling, fever, nausea, or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately. Call 155 (ambulance) or go to the nearest emergency room (pohotovosť).
