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Monday, 24 September, 2001, 13:54 GMT 14:54 UK
Dangerous spiders snatched
A Chilean Rose spider
A bite from this spider could mean a spell in hospital
Experts have issued a warning after rare and poisonous spiders were stolen from a Nottingham pet store.

More than 20 exotic spiders along with six lizards and two scorpions were stolen between Saturday night and Sunday morning.

All the spiders are poisonous and their bites could cause swelling, dizziness and vomiting. None of their bites would be fatal.

Nicholas Roberts, owner of burgled store, The Fish Specialist and Wildlife Lecturing Services, said: "Some of the spiders taken are much nastier than others.

Nicholas Roberts
Nicholas Roberts: Warning of bites
"Some would be like a bee sting but from some you would end up in hospital and you would be there for three or four days.

"You would be in a lot of pain. You would be off work for a week."

The brightly-coloured spiders are native to exotic locations such as Brazil and Peru and fetch prices of up to £200.

They include an Indian Ornamental spider which is yellow and the size of a hand, an orange Aborinth spider and a Trinidad Chevron

Police say that at least one of the spiders could have escaped as an empty tank was found outside the store.

Nearby householders have been warned of the possible hazards.

Contact PC Ian Stafford at Nottingham Police on (0115) 967 0999 with information.

See also:

21 Sep 01 | UK
Biting spider widens its web
03 Aug 01 | Wales
Spider man wins arachnid award
18 Jan 00 | Health
Zoo therapy for spider-haters
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