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Is it fair to call animals "nasties" at all? Well, there are quite a few that don't look particular nice, and don't invite to be cuddled. Many people think of spiders and snakes as the most dangerous and nasty animals in Australia. In my opinion, snakes and spiders are not nasty. They are wonderful animals. Though, I wouldn't touch them either. Know what is crawling out there, and there's no need to fear Australian wildlife. Australian spiders
"There was a redback on the toilet seat when I was there last night, I didn't see him in the dark, but boy, I felt his bite." This song by Slim Newton made the redback spider well-known, but not well-loved, in Australia.
Redbacks can be found all over Australia, in the cities and the Outback. They like dry and dark places in houses, sheds, outdoor toilets etc. About half of the bites occur indoors. Don't panic if you see a spider, they won't attack you. Tips to prevent redback bites: When you're afraid that your accommodation place is spider infected, cover your boots at night, and shake your clothes in the morning before you get dressed. Keep your bags and suitcases closed. How to treat redback bites: Apply ice packs to relieve the pain that starts immediately after the bite. Antivenom is only given if the pain consists for several days, or if the victim develops systemic effects such as nausea, vomiting, and headache. Even if you arrive at a hospital days after the bite, the antivenom will be effective to relieve the symptoms. So there is no need to panic.
The funnel web is a 6-7 cm big, black spider with massive fangs. The venom of the male spider is more toxic than the female. First aid: The pressure immobilisation technique, which is also recommended for snake bites, must be commenced immediately. It prevents the spread of the venom, and gives the victim some time to arrive in hospital. It is recommended that all bites by big black spiders are treated as suspected funnel web bites. You never know.
Other venomous creatures
Want to know how to apply that pressure immobilisation correctly? See the instructions on the Australian Venom Research Unit Print it out and take it with you. You certainly won't need it, however, isn't it a good feeling to be prepared for anything? Also, refer to the First Aid Kit Checklist and take the necessary items with you. Don't forget that even non-venomous and cute animals can hurt humans. Always treat wild animals with respect. You never know what they would do if you scare them. Don't miss these articles about Australian wildlife. Dangerous Australian animals - animals that inhabit coastal areas in the tropical north. Australian snakes - wonderful creatures, respect them, and you'll be fine. Native Australian animals - kangaroos, koalas and other unique wildlife. Koala pictures - see some lovely photos, and buy a poster of your favourites. Please use the site search when you're looking for more info about Australian wildlife and the Australian Outback. Return To Unique Australian Animals Main Page Return From Dangerous Australian Wildlife To Outback Guide Homepage
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