The common rain spider is a type of huntsman spider. Guess where it’s mostly found? In many parts of South Africa! These spiders are pretty interesting, and we’re going to share some cool things about them right here.
The egg sac is round, made using silk, and protected with leaves and twigs. The female takes 3 to 5 hours to construct these egg sacs and guards them till the spiderlings are hatched from it.
They remain in the protective shell of their mother for about 3 to 4 weeks after hatching and then they leave their shelter to be on their own.
Photo Credit: Derek Keats
Not much information is available regarding their web, but in this regard, they could take after other species in the huntsman spiders family and not build webs but hunt around for food.
Yes, Rain spiders have venom. They use it mainly to help them grab their meals. But for humans, it’s not very strong. In 1959, scientists tested if this spider’s venom was dangerous. They let it bite a guinea pig’s nose, and the guinea pig passed away in 7 minutes. But when they tried again with a sleepy guinea pig, it was okay. So, they thought the first guinea pig was shocked to death, not poisoned.
They can bite if they feel bothered. The bite might feel a bit pinchy or itchy, but most people don’t find it too bad.
The common rain spider plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance within its habitat. By preying on various insects and small lizards, it helps control pest populations, contributing to a healthier environment. Their nocturnal nature and agility make them excellent hunters, and their presence is a clear indicator of a robust ecosystem.
Natural Predators: In the wild, the common rain spider is not without its adversaries. The pompilid wasp is a formidable foe, capable of paralyzing the spider with a precise sting. Birds also pose a significant threat.
Prey-Predator Dynamics: These dynamics highlight the fragile balance in nature’s web of life, showcasing the spider’s resilience and adaptability.
Relationship with Humans: While their appearance might startle some, rain spiders are generally harmless to humans. Misunderstandings and lack of knowledge can lead to unnecessary fear, but with education and awareness, we can foster a more harmonious coexistence. These spiders, in turn, contribute to controlling insect populations around human habitation, making them silent allies in our daily lives.
| Lifespan | Approximately 2 years |
| Distribution | Throughout South Africa ranging from the KwaZulu-Natal (east); Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West (north); Western Cape, Easter Cape (south) |
| Habitat | Scrublands and woodlands |
| Common Predators | Pompilid wasp (that is known to paralyze spider by stinging them), and birds |
| Diet | Crickets, lizards (mostly geckos), cockroaches, moths, and other large-sized insects |
In conclusion, the common rain spider, with its impressive size, hunting prowess, and intricate life cycle, stands as a fascinating subject in the world of arachnology.
The common rain spider is a type of huntsman spider. Guess where it’s mostly found? In many parts of South Africa! These spiders are pretty interesting, and we’re going to share some cool things about them right here.
The egg sac is round, made using silk, and protected with leaves and twigs. The female takes 3 to 5 hours to construct these egg sacs and guards them till the spiderlings are hatched from it.
They remain in the protective shell of their mother for about 3 to 4 weeks after hatching and then they leave their shelter to be on their own.
Photo Credit: Derek Keats
Not much information is available regarding their web, but in this regard, they could take after other species in the huntsman spiders family and not build webs but hunt around for food.
Yes, Rain spiders have venom. They use it mainly to help them grab their meals. But for humans, it’s not very strong. In 1959, scientists tested if this spider’s venom was dangerous. They let it bite a guinea pig’s nose, and the guinea pig passed away in 7 minutes. But when they tried again with a sleepy guinea pig, it was okay. So, they thought the first guinea pig was shocked to death, not poisoned.
They can bite if they feel bothered. The bite might feel a bit pinchy or itchy, but most people don’t find it too bad.
The common rain spider plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance within its habitat. By preying on various insects and small lizards, it helps control pest populations, contributing to a healthier environment. Their nocturnal nature and agility make them excellent hunters, and their presence is a clear indicator of a robust ecosystem.
Natural Predators: In the wild, the common rain spider is not without its adversaries. The pompilid wasp is a formidable foe, capable of paralyzing the spider with a precise sting. Birds also pose a significant threat.
Prey-Predator Dynamics: These dynamics highlight the fragile balance in nature’s web of life, showcasing the spider’s resilience and adaptability.
Relationship with Humans: While their appearance might startle some, rain spiders are generally harmless to humans. Misunderstandings and lack of knowledge can lead to unnecessary fear, but with education and awareness, we can foster a more harmonious coexistence. These spiders, in turn, contribute to controlling insect populations around human habitation, making them silent allies in our daily lives.
| Lifespan | Approximately 2 years |
| Distribution | Throughout South Africa ranging from the KwaZulu-Natal (east); Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West (north); Western Cape, Easter Cape (south) |
| Habitat | Scrublands and woodlands |
| Common Predators | Pompilid wasp (that is known to paralyze spider by stinging them), and birds |
| Diet | Crickets, lizards (mostly geckos), cockroaches, moths, and other large-sized insects |
In conclusion, the common rain spider, with its impressive size, hunting prowess, and intricate life cycle, stands as a fascinating subject in the world of arachnology.
Mumpi Ghosh on May 24, 2019.
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