Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, barking spiders are real arachnids, primarily referring to the Australian Whistling Spider (Selenocosmia crassipes) and related tarantula species that produce audible sounds through a process called stridulation.

The term "barking spider" comes from the distinctive sound these spiders produce, which can range from soft whistling to louder hissing or rasping noises that some compare to a small dog's bark.

Barking spiders are primarily found in:

• Australia: Selenocosmia crassipes inhabits eastern Queensland, particularly in rainforest and woodland areas
• Southeast Asia: Several species of Chilobrachys and Haplopelma with acoustic abilities are found in Thailand, China, and surrounding regions
• Parts of Central and South America: Some Psalmopoeus and Acanthoscurria species demonstrate similar acoustic behaviors

See our Species Guide for detailed distribution information.

While barking spiders are venomous, they are generally not considered dangerous to healthy adults. Their venom is primarily designed to subdue prey like insects, not as a defense against large mammals.

That said, a bite from a large barking spider can be painful and may cause localized swelling, nausea, or vomiting in some cases. People with specific allergies or compromised immune systems might experience more severe reactions.

Barking spiders typically only bite when severely provoked or handled. Their acoustic warning system is actually a defensive mechanism that helps them avoid physical confrontation.

Barking spiders are among the larger tarantula species:

• The Australian Barking Spider (Selenocosmia crassipes) has a leg span of 16-22 cm (6.3-8.7 inches)
• The body length is typically 6-8 cm (2.4-3.1 inches)
• Females are generally larger than males
• Asian species like Chilobrachys tend to be slightly smaller at 12-15 cm leg span

For size comparison charts and detailed morphological information, visit our Species Guide.

Barking spider sounds vary by species and context, but generally include:

• Soft whistling or hissing sounds
• Rasping or buzzing vibrations
• Sharp, louder defensive hisses
• Rhythmic stridulations during courtship

The comparison to a "bark" is somewhat exaggerated, though large specimens can produce surprisingly loud sounds audible from several meters away.

Barking spiders produce sounds through a process called stridulation. This involves:

• Rubbing specialized bristles (setae) located between their chelicerae (fangs) and the inner surface of their maxillae (mouthparts)
• The rapid vibration of specialized appendages against their body
• In some species, additional sound production through abdominal movements

Anatomical diagram showing the stridulation organs of Selenocosmia crassipes

The process is similar to how crickets produce chirping sounds, but with anatomy specific to tarantulas.

Barking spiders produce sounds for several evolutionary and behavioral reasons:

• Defense: Warning potential predators to stay away (most common reason)
• Territorial communication: Announcing presence to other spiders
• Mating rituals: Males produce specific patterns during courtship
• Environmental response: Reacting to changes in atmospheric conditions

Our research has also documented context-specific acoustic patterns, suggesting more complex communication than previously thought, potentially including warning other spiders of dangers.

No, most spiders are silent. Sound production is limited to certain groups:

• Several genera within the Theraphosidae (tarantula) family
• Some wolf spiders (Lycosidae)
• Certain orb weavers that produce subtle vibrations

Among these, barking spiders are notable for producing sounds audible to humans without special equipment. Most other spider acoustic communication uses substrate vibrations that require specialized equipment to detect.

Our research focuses on multiple aspects of barking spider biology, with emphasis on acoustic behavior:

• Documentation and analysis of the complete acoustic repertoire of barking spider species
• Anatomical studies of stridulation mechanisms and their evolution
• Ecological contexts of acoustic behavior and their role in spider communities
• Conservation status assessment and habitat protection initiatives
• Development of non-invasive acoustic monitoring methods for population studies

For more information about our current research projects, visit our Research page.

Recording barking spider sounds requires specialized equipment and techniques:

• BASS Units: Our custom-designed Barking Arachnid Sound System combines ultra-sensitive directional microphones with vibration sensors
• Field Deployment: Weatherproof recording stations positioned near known spider territories
• Laboratory Recordings: Controlled environment setups with specialized acoustic isolation
• Signal Processing: Advanced filtering algorithms to isolate spider sounds from environmental noise

For detailed information about our recording methodologies, visit our Equipment page.

The conservation status varies by species:

• Selenocosmia crassipes (Australian Barking Spider) is listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss
• Haplopelma hainanum (Chinese Barking Spider) is Critically Endangered
• Psalmopoeus stridulans (Trinidadian Barking Spider) is Endangered
• Other species have more stable populations but face increasing threats

Our institute conducts population monitoring and works with conservation authorities to establish protected areas for threatened species. Habitat loss from deforestation and collection for the pet trade are the primary threats.

While "barking spider" is indeed used as a humorous euphemism for flatulence in some cultures, it is also the legitimate common name for several tarantula species that produce audible sounds, particularly Selenocosmia crassipes.

The euphemistic usage likely developed because the actual sounds these spiders make can somewhat resemble the sound of human gas. However, our institute focuses exclusively on the real arachnids and their fascinating acoustic behaviors.

The scientific community generally uses more specific terms like "Australian Whistling Spider" to avoid confusion with the euphemism, but "barking spider" remains a widely used common name among arachnologists.

No, barking spiders cannot and do not jump at people. This is a common misconception that likely confuses them with jumping spiders (family Salticidae) or exaggerates their defensive movements.

Barking spiders are terrestrial tarantulas with a relatively heavy body mass that:

• Move with a deliberate walking gait
• May raise their front legs and fangs in a defensive posture when threatened
• Prefer to retreat to their burrows rather than engage in confrontation

Their acoustic warning system actually evolved as an alternative to physical confrontation, allowing them to warn potential threats without direct engagement.

"Barking spider" and "whistling spider" are two common names for the same arachnid, Selenocosmia crassipes. The different names reflect the variable nature of the sounds they produce:

• "Whistling spider" refers to the higher-pitched sounds they can make
• "Barking spider" refers to the sharper, more percussive defensive sounds

In scientific literature, "Australian Whistling Spider" is the more commonly used term, but both names are valid descriptions of the same species.

There are several ways to contribute to our research efforts:

• Citizen Science: Download our SpiderListen app to record and submit barking spider sounds you encounter
• Field Volunteering: Join our expeditions as a citizen scientist volunteer
• Research Collaboration: Academic researchers can propose formal collaborations
• Financial Support: Donate to fund specific research projects or equipment

For more information on these opportunities, visit our Contribute page.

If you believe you've heard a barking spider:

1. Try to record the sound if possible (even with a smartphone)
2. Note the exact location, time of day, and weather conditions
3. Do not disturb the area or attempt to find the spider
4. Submit your recording through our SpiderListen app or via our contact form

Your observation could be valuable, particularly if you're outside the known range of barking spider species. Our team will analyze your recording and provide feedback on the likely species and behavior.

Yes, we offer several educational resources and programs:

• School Presentations: Virtual and in-person educational sessions for K-12 classes
• Research Internships: For undergraduate and graduate students
• Teacher Resources: Downloadable curriculum materials
• Public Webinars: Monthly online presentations about spider acoustics

For information about our educational offerings, please visit our Education page or contact our outreach coordinator.