PREVIEW

An Australian zoo has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in its ongoing funnel-web spider program.

A female funnel-web spider laid an egg sac a month earlier than expected, marking a significant achievement in the Australian Reptile Park's unique program and the first egg sac of the season. The exciting development was made possible by replicating the natural onset of spring through a slight increase in the temperature of the spiders' controlled environment.

The event is credited to the keen observation and expertise of the Australian Reptile Park's Spider Keeper, Emma Teni, who noticed specific features in the spider - particularly its swollen abdomen - and identified her as potentially gravid. Emma closely monitored the spider and provided care, creating the ideal conditions for it to feel safe and healthy enough to lay its egg sac.

Emma’s instincts were accurate, and she now proudly oversees the care of the new mother and her precious egg sac. "It's an absolute thrill to witness this natural process unfold right here at the Australian Reptile Park," Emma said. "This egg sac represents the culmination of our team's hard work and dedication to replicating the spiders' natural environment as closely as possible. I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing the spiderlings hatch this October."

Once hatched, the spiderlings will be raised at the Park until they are mature enough to join the Park's lifesaving venom milking program. The Australian Reptile Park is the only facility in Australia that milks funnel-web spiders for their venom, which is then processed into antivenom, saving countless lives each year.

Liz Gabriel, Director of the Australian Reptile Park, emphasised the importance of this development: "This is a significant moment for us. Not only does it demonstrate our capability in funnel-web spider husbandry, but it also enhances our capacity to produce vital venom for antivenom production. We are incredibly proud of Emma and the entire team for making this possible."

The Park continues to encourage the public to support its lifesaving efforts by donating any funnel-web spiders or egg sacs they may find. The partnership between the Park and the community is crucial for sustaining the venom program and ensuring the antivenom remains available to those in need.

The Australian Reptile Park is the sole supplier of funnel-web spider venom for the production of lifesaving antivenom. The program has contributed to saving countless Australian lives since its inception in the early 1980s - there has not been a single death since the program began.