Redback Spider Infestation Discovered in Piney Lakes Playground Equipment
Residents of Melville have uncovered a concerning infestation of redback spiders within children's playground equipment at Piney Lakes Reserve. The discovery was made public after a local parent shared alarming details on a community Facebook group, describing the situation as having redbacks galore inside the play structures.
Parental Concern Over Playground Safety
One anonymous resident reported finding numerous redback spiders when she took her daughter to the Piney Lakes playground on Tuesday. She noted that the igloo-style play equipment, which features holes with coloured glass, was nearly filled with the poisonous spiders in almost every single hole. The resident attempted to eliminate the spiders using a stick but expressed frustration as many escaped, including some with nests containing baby spiders.
The poster emphasized the significant danger this poses to children, who might unknowingly insert their fingers into the holes and be exposed to the toxic spiders. She immediately reported the issue to the City of Melville council, urging prompt action to address the safety hazard.
Health Risks of Redback Spider Bites
Redback spiders, identifiable by their black bodies with a distinctive red stripe on the upper abdomen, are known for their venomous bites. Female redbacks can deliver bites that cause severe pain, illness, and in rare cases, potential death if antivenom is not administered promptly. These spiders typically build their webs in dry, sheltered locations such as under garden furniture, within corrugated fences, and inside enclosed playground equipment.
In Western Australia, redback spiders are most active during the summer months, which coincides with their mating season, increasing the likelihood of encounters in outdoor areas like playgrounds.
Community Response and Council Action
Other members of the Melville City Facebook group echoed the original poster's concerns, highlighting the seriousness of redback bites and reinforcing the need to report the infestation to local authorities. The collective worry underscores the importance of maintaining safe public spaces for children and families.
The City of Melville council has been notified and is expected to investigate and remediate the situation to ensure the playground is safe for public use. This incident serves as a reminder for parents and caregivers to remain vigilant when children are playing in outdoor areas, especially during warmer seasons when spider activity peaks.
