Huntsman spiders may be more often associated with the balmy climes of Australia, but one created quite the scare when it unexpectedly popped up in Hull.
Huntsmans are the largest spiders in the world by leg span, and can be as big as a dinner plate, according to LiveScience.
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They’re generally found in tropical, warm regions, but one decided to treat itself to a cheeky trip to Blighty – arriving on Friday, much to the surprise of those who found it.
The RSPCA shared a photo of the insect on Twitter, saying it had jumped onto a shipping container in China.
The charity confirmed it had been safely collected by one of its inspectors, and that it is now taking it easy at a rescue centre.
“Insp Boyd collected this Huntsman spider today,” the RSPCA said.
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“He fancied a holiday so he hopped on a shipping container in China and ended up in Hull!
“He gave staff quite a fright! He’s now having some R&R at a specialist rescue centre.”
One person retweeted the photo with a shocked emoji, while another joked: “Lucky spider, I wonder what he’ll make of Hull?”
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According to Radar Pest Control, based in Queensland, Australia, huntsman spiders have a ‘strong’ bite, which can prove painful and even lead to heart palpitations.
However, the huge spider is usually ‘quite harmless’, the company explains, saying on its website: “Huntsman spiders will bite humans if disturbed. They have a strong bite and may hold on for a time. Bites may be painful, but they usually do not cause any long term complications. If someone has asthma or is sensitive to the venom, they may experience more pronounced effects.
“Symptoms from huntsman spider bites may include: local swelling, pain, nausea, headaches, vomiting, irregular pulse rate, and sometimes even heart palpitations.”
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If you find you’ve been bitten by one, Radar Pest Control says it’s important ‘not to panic’.
It adds: “It may be quite frightening to come across a spider that big, but huntsman spiders are not out to hurt you. They do a wonderful job eating your unwanted insects and pests, so the best thing to do is leave them alone.
“If you find one in your home or shed, you can carefully scoop the spider into a container and release it outside, away from your home.”
Of course, if you find one in the UK, you’re best off calling the RSPCA to see if Inspector Boyd fancies popping round to sort it out for you.
Jess Hardiman