Fact vs. Fiction

True or False?

The "Daddy Long Legs" spider is the most venomous spider in the world, however it can't bite people because it's mouth is so small!

FALSE! This is an urban legend that I've heard all my life, and while the myth has been debunked many times, it refuses to stop! Here's the facts: The name "Daddy Long Legs" is used for at least 3 different species in different parts of the world. In many countries the nickname is given to the Crane Fly, or what we affectionally call the Mosquito Hawk. The name is also given to an Austrailian spider also known as the Cellar Spider. However, here the term is used for the Harvestman, which unlike it's Austrailian mate (mate, get it?), isn't technically a spider, however it is an arachnid.

The Harvestman has no venom sacks at all, which pretty much counts it out in the "most venomous" competition. It poses no threat to humans, and it's diet normally consists of small insects and plant matter, fungi, and even bird poop. The Cellar Spider does have venom sacks, and it's fangs have been proven to be able to penetrate human skin, however the toxicity of the venom is relatively weak even when used on insects. So, theres nothing to fear when it comes to these long-legged crawlies! The title for the most venomous spider actually goes to the Brazilian Wandering Spider, which is found in South America. So while the Daddy Long Legs poses no threat, you'de be keen to avoid other spiders around these parts, like the highly venomous Brown Recluse and Southern Black Widow.