Tarantulas migrate through Austria during autumn

Two species of tarantulas, the Southern Russian Tarantula and the Black-bellied Tarantula, are increasing their activity across Austria during the autumn months. The migration is driven by males searching for mates and females seeking winter quarters. Due to mild autumn temperatures, these spiders are more active and may enter gardens, garages, and homes.

The Southern Russian Tarantula, which can reach up to four centimeters in length, is the largest spider in Central Europe and is primarily found in eastern regions like Burgenland. The Black-bellied Tarantula, measuring up to two and a half centimeters, is more common in southern areas such as Styria and Carinthia.

The Naturschutzbund Österreich (Austrian Nature Conservation Union) emphasizes that these spiders pose no danger to humans. Experts state that this is a natural expansion rather than an invasion and that current numbers are not high enough to disrupt the ecosystem. The organization advises citizens not to kill the spiders if found indoors, but rather to carefully relocate them outside using a container. Citizens are encouraged to report sightings with photographs to help monitor the species.