Trapdoor spiders can be found in Canberra and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), as they are native to various regions across Australia. These spiders typically inhabit burrows with a trapdoor-like entrance, which they construct in the ground using soil, silk, and plant material. The preferred habitat for trapdoor spiders includes forests, grasslands, and gardens, where they can find suitable soil conditions for building their burrows and ample prey to sustain themselves.
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Eliminate Trapdoor Spiders From Your Property in Canberra
Trapdoor spiders belong to various families, including Idiopidae, Actinopodidae, Ctenizidae, Migidae and Cyrtaucheniidae. These clever creatures construct nests in the soil and protect them with a silk door that can open and close.
Using their door as a surprise tactic, trapdoor spiders quickly open it to capture insects that wander too close to their nest. While some species of trapdoor spiders don’t create a door for their nest, they are still called trapdoor spiders.
Discover the Fascinating Physical Characteristics of Trapdoor Spiders
Were you aware that trapdoor spiders possess short and blunt spinnerets? Moreover, the female ones tend to be larger than their male counterparts due to a small double spur on their first leg. If you take a closer look at brown trapdoor spiders, you will notice their dull brown appearance and the pale gold hairs that cover their carapace.
These spiders also feature pale bars and two compact rows of eyes on their abdomen. Moving on to sigillate trapdoor spiders, their glossy and strongly arched carapace distinguishes them from others. In addition, their abdomen is characterised by four to six hairless spots, and their eyes are arranged in three rows.
When it comes to feeding, trapdoor spiders have a unique approach. First, they lie in wait inside their burrows before surprising passing insects with lightning-fast fangs. Then, once they have captured their prey, they drag it back into their burrows for safekeeping.
These spiders feed on insects, including crickets, moths, beetles, and grasshoppers. It’s remarkable how these tiny creatures have developed such an effective hunting strategy to capture much larger prey.
Breeding Habits
During humid weather, mature male trapdoor spiders search for a mate. Once they find one, they enter her burrow to mate. Females can lay eggs months after mating and protect them in shelters. After hatching, the young spiders stay in the burrow for several months before building on the ground. As they grow, they widen their holes to fit their larger bodies.
Can Brown Trapdoor Spiders Harm Humans?
Brown trapdoor spiders are not dangerous to humans, and their bites are less severe than those of funnel-web spiders. If bitten, you may experience pain and swelling but nothing more.
For effective spider control in Canberra, trust Tom’s Pest Control
At Tom’s Pest Control Canberra, we have a team of skilled and qualified pest exterminators who can meet all your spider control needs at an affordable price. In addition, we thoroughly inspect your property for potential hiding places for pests, including roof voids, subfloor areas, fence lines, window frames, eaves, gutters, and garden areas.
We assess the extent of the infestation and suggest the most appropriate treatment. Each property and infestation are unique, so we invite you to share your requirements. Trust us to manage minor or severe spider infestations competently.
Get in Touch with Our Experts for Trapdoor Spider Removal
If trapdoor spiders are causing problems in your home, our experienced team can provide safe and effective removal services. Contact us to discuss your needs and book an inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Trapdoor Spiders hunt?
Trapdoor spiders dig burrows under the ground, acting as their homes and as traps for insects and prey. They make these trapdoors with vegetation, silk, or soil. They feed by quickly opening the trap door and grabbing an insect passing nearby.
How often should I have a professional pest control service inspect my home for trapdoor spiders?
The frequency of pest control inspections depends on the severity of the infestation and the level of risk in your area. Generally, having your home inspected at least once a year is recommended. However, you may need more frequent inspections if you live in a room with a high population of trapdoor spiders.
What should I do if I find a trapdoor spider in my home?
If you find a trapdoor spider in your home, the best thing to do is to leave it alone. Trapdoor spiders are not aggressive and usually only bite if provoked or threatened. However, if you are concerned, you can use a broom or other tool to move the spider outside gently.
