What is so unique about Funnel web spiders in Arizona? Have you ever thought about that? Then, this article about these critters is for you!
Funnel web spiders in Arizona, part of the Dipluridae family, are known for their unique funnel-shaped webs. These webs open wide at the mouth and narrow into a tube, where the spider hides.
They are positioned just above the ground; these horizontal sheetwebs are non-sticky but highly effective for hunting. The spider waits patiently inside the narrow funnel for an insect to walk across its web.
When it feels the vibrations of its prey, the spider rushes out, bites the insect, and injects it with venom. The immobilized insect is then dragged back into the funnel, where the spider can safely consume it.
These fascinating spiders are an essential part of Arizona’s diverse wildlife, helping to keep insect numbers in check and we’ll learn more about it in this article.
How to Identify Funnel Web Spiders
These spiders are not quite easy to identify, but the characteristics below will make it easier to spot them:
- They are large, brown, and bulky spiders feared in southern and eastern Australia due to their venomous bites.
- Funnel web spiders in Arizona are similar in appearance to the wolf spider, but smaller and more delicate
- They have a body length of about ¼ inch (12 mm).
- They also build sheet-like webs with a distinct funnel shape.
- The female species lay 100 to 200 eggs in an egg case woven into the web near or within the funnel, and eggs hatch after about a month
- The young spiders disperse by ballooning
Read also: White Regal Jumping Spiders: 5 Unique Facts About The Critter
What are the Species of Funnel Web Spiders In Arizona?
Several species of Funnel web spiders are found here in the Sonoran Desert, and their distinctive, funnel-shaped webs are a common sight in areas with grass, leaf litter, and other plant debris. They include:
- Agelenopsis aperta (Desert Grass Spider)
- Agelenopsis naevia (American Grass Spider)
- Hololena curta ( Hololena Spider)
Where is the Habitat of Funnel Web Spiders In Arizona?
These fascinating critters are often found in these environments:
- They are typically found in grassy areas with low vegetation
- They often build webs in leaf litter and forest floors
- Funnel web spiders in Arizona frequently inhabit gardens and yards
- They construct sheet-like webs with funnel-shaped retreats
- These critters prefer shaded, moist environments
- They can also be found under rocks, logs, and debris
- Sometimes they build webs near human structures, such as sheds and barns
- They are common in areas with high insect activity for prey availability
Are Funnel Web Spiders In Arizona a Threat?
The Funnel-Web Spiders found in Arizona are harmless to humans and very shy. They are rarely seen outside of their holes, and when spotted outside, they will quickly race to the safety of their holes when they spot an individual.
Are Funnel web spiders in Arizona harmful? Yes, funnel web spiders are venomous. Their bites can be harmful to insects and other small prey, but they usually aren’t dangerous to humans.
If a funnel web spider bites you, it might cause some pain and irritation at the bite site, but that’s about it for most healthy adults.
However, kids, the elderly, or people with allergies might have a stronger reaction, so it’s always a good idea to get medical help if you’re bitten.
Read also: Wolf Spiders In Vermont: 4 Amazing Facts You Must Know
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