Sydneysiders have been warned to exercise "extreme caution" as the breeding season for funnel-web spiders kicks off.
Male funnel-web spiders may appear in homes and backyards in the coming weeks as they hunt for a mate, leaving burrows as they search.
They prefer shady, sheltered areas that are both cool and humid. Sydneysiders may also find egg sacks with the spiders, with each one containing between 50-150 baby spiders.
"Funnel-web breeding season is here and all the rain this year has brought about humid conditions where funnel-web spiders thrive," Australian Reptile Park Director Liz Gabriel said in a statement.
"When found inside homes, Sydney funnel-web spiders prefer cool, damp places like the laundry, garage or in shoes left out on the ground.
"It is best to ensure you are not leaving washing and clothing on the floors, if you leave your shoes outside – make sure you check them first before putting your foot in blindly as shoes can be the perfect little burrow for funnel-web spiders.
"Pool filters should also be checked and cleaned regularly."
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The Australian Reptile Park is asking anyone who comes across a funnel-web to safely collect the spider and drop it off at their local "spider drop-off location," to aid in the collection of antivenom.
The Reptile Park is the only supplier of funnel-web antivenom and needs 150 spiders to make one vial of the antivenom.
"It's important that Australians are across the correct first aid and know how to safely catch the spiders so that we can continue to extract their venom and save lives," Gabriel said.
"We rely on public donations of funnel-web spiders to build up our milking individuals."
Information about bite treatment and spider drop-off spots can be found on the Australian Reptile Park Website.
