Funnel Web Spider The funnel web spider is normally found in the southern hemisphere, particularly Australia, both in coastal and highland areas. Though the generic name of the funnel web spider is used most of the time, it includes no less than thirty-six species that live both on land and in trees. Far from being seen as a threat to humans, the huntsman spider is pretty useful since it mainly feeds on insects. Nevertheless, the Australian variety of the species has been reported to inflict serious bites that cause not just pain and inflammation, but vomiting episodes, fever, headaches and even changes in the heart rate. Poisonous Spiders Many people have a phobia when it comes to spiders; hairy legs, devious traps, innocent victims : this is the picture that they usually imagine. This unjust pattern is not justified since even the most poisonous spiders will not attack a human unless they felt threatened. All spiders need to inject venom in order to survive, it is in the nature of their species and one of the life mechanisms they have been endowed with; what really differs from one species to another and gives rise to the classification into poisonous and non-poisonous is the amount of venom and its toxicity. When a spider bites you, the first thing to do is trying to identify the species, if it be possible; knowing what type of spider bit you may be crucial in case an anti-venom has to be used. Superficial spider bites can only cause a skin rash and some itching: nothing more. The remedy for such cases is pretty much at hand: cold water and aloe ointments could alleviate the irritating sensation. Other measures meant to improve the victim's condition include the elevation or the immobilization of the body part if the bite has been made on one of the limbs. Though many patients fail to turn to medical intervention for the matter, the use of antihistamines, anti-venom and antibiotics can prove of great help. The greatest risk of a spider bite is anaphylaxis: the allergic reaction to spider venom that is sometimes encountered with very sensitive people. Hives, wheezing, shortness of breath and weakness are the general symptoms associated with anaphylaxis, therefore call 911 right away if you notice any such symptoms.