Spiders in the genus Palystes are commonly called rain spiders, or lizard-eating spiders. Palystes spiders will often enter homes before rain, where they will prey on geckos (usually Afrogecko porphyreus in Gauteng, the Western Cape, or Lygodactylus capensis in the eastern parts of southern Africa). [ 5 ]

Sep 3, 2023 · Rain spiders, also known as huntsman spiders, are commonly found in South Africa, specifically in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, and other regions with rainy or wet environments. They often reside in gardens, houses, and scrublands, hiding in dry barks and wood cracks for camouflage.

Feb 19, 2025 · From the innocent daddy longlegs to the harmful brown recluse, here are the most common house spiders, how to identify them, and when to worry about a bite, according to entomologists.

Sep 15, 2023 · Spider identification: The zebra jumping spider is a black spider with white spots that can be recognized by its furry black body, two or three pairs of white abdominal stripes, and black and white fuzzy legs.

Palystes is a genus of huntsman spiders, commonly called rain spiders or lizard-eating spiders, [2] occurring in Africa, India, Australia, and the Pacific. [1] The most common and widespread species is P. superciliosus, found in South Africa, home to 12 species in the genus.

The Common rain spider (Palystes superciliosus), formerly P. natalius, is a species of huntsman spider native to Southern Africa. It is the most common and widespread species in the Palystes genus.

May 24, 2019 · The common rain spider plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance within its habitat. By preying on various insects and small lizards, it helps control pest populations, contributing to a healthier environment.

With keen eyesight, common rain spider is an accomplished hunter, primarily stalking and ambushing its prey at night. Seasonally adapting, this arachnid constructs a retreat lined with silk during cooler periods.

The Common rain spider , formerly ''P. natalius'', is a species of huntsman spider native to Southern Africa. It is the most common and widespread species in the ''Palystes'' genus.

These are the large spiders, often referred to as "tarantulas", that cause havoc by entering buildings during summer or before rain. These spiders were previously listed as potentially dangerous.