What is a Trap Door Spider? Within the animal kingdom lies a species of spider so unique it is like no other species of spider. This spider is called the trapdoor spider. They are a type of spider that spends much of its life in a burrow underground. They are very different to traditional spiders. Instead of spinning a web and catching prey, they make a burrow. These burrows are around 30 centimeters deep and 5 centimeters long. The front of their burrows are equipped with a trapdoor surrounded with camouflage to seem unsuspecting to their prey. This trapdoor is what they hide behind just before they come out and kill their prey. Trapdoor spiders are known to be larger than other spiders. Some can grow to be 4 centimeters long, the size of a small tarantula!
Why Do These Spiders Live in a Burrow?
The burrow provides protection for the spider from the elements and other predators. They start making their burrows from the start of birth. There unique set of legs allows them to build well-constructed burrows. Once the initial tunnel has been constructed, it is reinforced with a coating of a mixture of earth and saliva. Next a layer of silk is added, this being spun in one piece. The trap door itself is constructed with their webbing and the earth around the burrow.
What Do Trap Door Spiders Eat?
Trapdoor spiders eat a variety of insects, including grasshoppers, crickets, and even preying mantes. They also enjoy more than just insects, they have also been known to consume frogs, baby birds, baby snakes, mice, and even small fish. When the spiders feel vibrations caused by passing prey, they will leap out, capture the prey, and take it down into the burrow. They stay inside their burrow for most of their lives. The only ones who leave the burrow, are the males to find females to mate with.
How Long Does A Trap Door Spider Live?
Trapdoor spiders can live for a long time. The average life span of a trap door spider is 5 to 20 years. Compared to house spiders whose average lifespan is 1 to 2 years.
Are Trap Door Spiders Dangerous To Humans?
Their venom is non-fatal to humans, however, if bitten it is very painful. Their fangs are larger than other species of spiders, so this makes their bite more painful. They are known to be aggressive spiders, however, if left alone they will not chase you.
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