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Heteropoda venatoria
Sparassidae; Heteropoda venatoria Linnaeus, 1767. This one is a male. It can be recognised as such by the distinctive markings seen in dorsal view (you are unlikely to see a ventral view of this spider). In comparison to the female of this species, the male has a smaller body and longer legs. The female is much less striking, having a lack-lustre, plain appearance.
Spotted on the wall of the rice mill at 8:54 pm. when I was out, after dark, observing the nocturnal behaviour of a different spider.
If you want to see a female of this species, there is one here - https://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/13...
Spotted on Apr 25, 2023
Submitted on Apr 27, 2023
3 Comments
Oh, interesting to hear, thanks John B.
To: Irandi Munasinghe
Yes, first time I saw one many years ago, I thought it was a little bit scary because it is quite big and moves very fast. I am used to this kind of spider now as it is a very common species, here in the Philippines. I have never had a bite from this spider, but Wikipedia says "The spider is not considered dangerous, but it does deliver enough venom to give a painful bite". I think this species is present in Sri Lanka. So, if you see one, it would be best not to touch it. Just take a photo and send it to Project Noah>
John B.
Spooky