A colourful spider discovered in the sand dunes near Yanchep is at risk of extinction due to homes being developed just 20 metres near its only known refuge.

Peacock spiders – otherwise known as Maratus yanchep – were discovered in 2022 by three wildlife photographers including Nick Volpe who spoke to 6PR Afternoons host Julie-Anne Sprague.

“Urban sprawl have been isolating these habitats and their often the first to go because everyone wants a house closer to the beach,” Mr Volpe said.

Click PLAY to hear why the spider is at risk of extinction. 

Image: Michael Lun photography.