The Most Common Spider Myth in Australia
Ask almost any Australian about daddy long legs and they’ll tell you the same thing: “They’re the most venomous spider in the world, but their fangs are too small to bite you.” It’s one of the most persistent urban legends in the country — and it’s not true.
What Is a Daddy Long Legs?
The name “daddy long legs” is used for several different creatures, but in Australian homes, it almost always refers to the Pholcus phalangioides — the cellar spider. It is a delicate, long-legged spider that builds messy, irregular webs in corners, ceilings and undisturbed areas of homes. It is found throughout Australia and is one of the most common house spiders in Sydney.
Debunking the Myth
Are they the most venomous spider in the world?
No. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. The venom of Pholcus phalangioides has never been found to be significantly toxic to humans or other mammals. The myth appears to have originated from a misidentification or confusion with other species.
Are their fangs too small to bite?
No — this is also false. Pholcid spiders can and do bite humans when handled, though it is uncommon. The bite is described as a mild, short-lived stinging sensation with no lasting effect.
This was demonstrated on the popular TV program MythBusters, where a pholcid spider successfully bit through human skin — and caused only minor, temporary discomfort.
Are They Harmful?
No. Daddy long legs spiders are harmless to humans and are in fact beneficial — they catch and consume other insects and spiders in your home, including redbacks. It’s quite common to find a daddy long legs that has wrapped a redback spider in silk.
Should You Kill Them?
Given their role as natural predators of more harmful insects and spiders, many pest controllers — including our team at Pestyologist — recommend leaving daddy long legs undisturbed if they are in low-traffic areas. However, if large numbers are accumulating in visible areas, or if you simply prefer them gone, standard spider treatments will remove them along with other spider species.
Other Spiders Commonly Called Daddy Long Legs
Confusingly, the name is also used for:
- Harvestmen (Opiliones): Not spiders at all — they are a separate arachnid order. They have one fused body segment (spiders have two) and no venom glands
- Crane flies: Also called daddy long legs in the UK and parts of Australia — these are insects, not arachnids, and are completely harmless
The Bottom Line
Daddy long legs are harmless, helpful and largely misunderstood. If spider numbers in your home are concerning, a professional treatment from Pestyologist will address all species — harmful and harmless alike. Contact us today.