Height
3 meters
Year Built
2005
Address
Armadale Reptile Centre, 308 South Western Highway, Armadale, WA 6112
The Lowdown
The Big Redback at Armadale Reptile Centre brings one of Australia's most notorious spiders to terrifying life-size... well, oversized life. The redback spider, with its distinctive red stripe and venomous bite, is an icon of Australian wildlife - often found hiding under toilet seats, in sheds, and anywhere dark and sheltered. This impressive sculpture captures the spider in alarming detail, from its bulbous abdomen to its menacing legs. While real redbacks are cause for caution, the Big Redback offers a safe encounter with this infamous arachnid, educating visitors about a creature that shares our homes whether we like it or not.
Did you know?
"Only female redbacks are dangerous to humans"
History
The Big Redback was created as part of Armadale Reptile Centre's mission to educate visitors about Australia's wildlife, including the creatures we'd often rather avoid. The redback spider is one of Australia's most recognized venomous spiders.
More Fun Facts
- •Redback spiders are related to black widow spiders
- •Only female redbacks are dangerous to humans
- •The distinctive red stripe gives them their name
- •Antivenom has been available since 1956 - no deaths since
- •They love hiding under outdoor furniture and in sheds
Visiting Tips
- 💡The Reptile Centre has many other animals to see
- 💡Learn how to safely check for spiders at home
- 💡Great photo opportunity for the brave
- 💡Armadale has pleasant Perth Hills walking trails
- 💡Combine with wine tasting in the nearby Swan Valley
Opening Hours
Reptile centre hours. Check for current admission.
More Big Things Nearby
Big Crocodile
A massive 20-metre long concrete saltwater crocodile sculpture serving as both tourist attraction and swimming safety reminder in Australia's far north.
Big King Neptune
A giant King Neptune statue at Two Rocks, WA, originally from the defunct Atlantis Marine Park.
Giant Ram (Bart)
Australia's second-largest ram sculpture, a 9-metre tall tribute to Western Australia's wool industry, affectionately known as 'Bart'.