Huge tarantula spiders have invaded a town in the Australian outback, after being forced out of their natural habitat.

The 'bird eating spiders' normally live under mulch and logs keeping out of the way of humans, but experts say recent heavy rain has forced them out of their homes.

As a result scores of the eastern tarantulas have turned up in Bowen, a coastal town northwest of Brisbane, where locals say they have been shocked by their size.

The eastern tarantulas, which live up to 30 years, can have a leg span of 16cm and are so venomous they are able to kill a dog with one bite.

A local pest control officer said he had been inundated with calls and has warned residents to wear shoes when going out ... I think I would be in a full body suit.