Trapdoor Spider Facts & Information

What do trapdoor spiders look like?

Trapdoor spiders are medium to large arachnids, typically ranging from 1 to 3 inches in body length. They have stout, hairy bodies and are usually brown or black in color, helping them blend into their surroundings. Their most distinctive feature is their robust legs and a specialized, rounded abdomen that assists in burrowing.

What do trapdoor spiders eat?

Trapdoor spiders are carnivorous, preying mainly on insects and other small invertebrates. They use their excellent sense of vibration to detect prey moving nearby, then swiftly ambush them as they approach their burrow entrance.

What sort of habitat do trapdoor spiders live in?

Trapdoor spiders are typically found in soil, leaf litter, or under rocks and logs. They create silk-lined burrows with a camouflaged lid that resembles the surrounding ground, providing both shelter and a trap for unsuspecting prey. These burrows are often located in gardens, grasslands, or forests.

How do trapdoor spiders commonly behave?

Trapdoor spiders are secretive and primarily nocturnal. They spend much of their time hidden inside their burrows, waiting patiently for prey to pass by. When they detect movement, they quickly open their trapdoor and pounce on their victim. Despite their fierce hunting tactics, they are generally non-aggressive toward humans.

Did you know this about trapdoor spiders?

Trapdoor spiders are remarkable builders, creating elaborate silk-lined burrows with lids that can be sealed tightly. They are also known for their unique method of hunting; they wait for vibrations on the surface to indicate the presence of prey and then launch a surprise attack! While their bites are venomous, they are rarely harmful to humans and prefer to avoid confrontation.