A massive huntsman spider was found in a box of bananas at a school in Ramsey, near Huntingdon, Cambs, causing surprise among the staff. The bananas, originating from the Ivory Coast approximately 3,200 miles away, likely carried a Barylestis spp, a type of Huntsman spider known for its speed and aggressiveness in hunting prey.
Although Huntsman spiders are fast and fierce predators, they pose little threat to humans due to their mild venom. Chris Newman, the director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, confirmed the spider’s likely identity as a huntsman species from the Ivory Coast.
Local reactions varied, with some expressing fear and vowing to be more cautious when handling bananas. Despite the spider’s discovery, experts reassure that the Huntsman species found is not harmful to humans.
