An Unexpected Guest Arrives
Last Christmas, while preparing their home in Australia for the holidays, Michelle Jean Oberle and her family noticed something unusual on their living room wall. At first glance, it looked like a shadow or perhaps a dark object stuck to the paint. But when they looked closer, they realized it wasn’t an object at all — it was an enormous huntsman spider.
For many families, discovering a spider of that size indoors would spark panic. But for the Oberles, the encounter unfolded quite differently. Rather than rushing for a broom or calling pest control, they recognized that huntsman spiders, while intimidating in appearance, are not harmful to humans. In fact, these arachnids are known to be gentle giants, more interested in chasing down insects than bothering people.
So, instead of evicting her, the Oberles let her stay. What they didn’t realize at the time was that this unexpected guest would soon become more than just a temporary visitor.
Growing Bigger — And Bolder
In the weeks that followed, the spider lingered quietly in the living room, keeping to herself. Then, after a while, she disappeared. The family assumed she had simply moved on, as many wild creatures eventually do.
But months later, she was back. Only this time, she had grown noticeably larger. Perched high on the walls, her long legs stretched wide, making her nearly impossible to miss.
“She is usually up near the ceiling,” Oberle explained. “Because of her size, it’s very easy to spot her.”
Not only had she grown, but her behavior had changed as well. The spider, once shy and reserved, now appeared far more comfortable in her adopted home. She began roaming from room to room, showing no hesitation in making herself at ease. It was clear to the Oberles that she had decided this house was hers too.
A New Kind of Family Member
While Michelle and the rest of her family were tolerant of their unusual housemate, it was her son Liam who grew especially fond of the spider. Unlike most children, who might scream or run from such a large arachnid, Liam welcomed her presence.
“Liam really enjoys having her walk on him,” Oberle said with a smile. “She’s very calm when handled.”
The huntsman’s gentle nature only strengthened their bond. She wasn’t aggressive, didn’t startle easily, and seemed content to coexist peacefully with her human hosts. Even the family’s cats and small dogs ignored her, accepting her as just another part of the household.
Over time, the spider went from being a guest to something closer to a family pet — though one who had entered on her own terms.
A Perfect Arrangement for All
For Michelle and her family, the arrangement turned out to be surprisingly convenient. Having a huntsman spider around meant that the house was naturally protected against smaller pests. Flies, moths, and other insects didn’t stand much of a chance with such an efficient hunter patrolling the walls.
“She’s a natural insect remover and completely harmless to us,” Oberle explained. “We actually like having her here.”
Unlike traditional pets, the spider requires no food bowls, no vet visits, and no special care. She comes and goes as she pleases, thanks to the family’s open doors and windows. Yet, despite having the freedom to leave whenever she wants, the spider has chosen to stay.
“We’ve seen her in every room of the house,” Oberle said. “She seems perfectly content. If she wants to leave, she can. But for now, she’s decided to stay with us.”
A year later, the spider is still very much part of the household, making herself at home as if she’s always belonged there.
More Than Just a Spider
What started as a startling discovery on the living room wall has turned into an unlikely friendship. The Oberle family has learned to see beauty and value in a creature that others might fear. Their huntsman isn’t just a houseguest anymore — she’s a reminder of the unexpected ways humans and wildlife can peacefully coexist.
For Michelle and Liam, the giant spider has become part of their story, a symbol of acceptance and respect for nature’s most misunderstood creatures. And as long as she chooses to stay, she will continue to skitter through the halls of their home — not as an intruder, but as a welcome resident who has truly claimed her place.
