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Purseweb spider

Purseweb spider

Atypus affinis

A species of Purse-web spiders

Roaming the understories of European woodlands, purseweb spider demonstrates a remarkable adaptation for subterranean living. This species constructs silk-lined burrows, which serve as both a refuge and a trap for unsuspecting prey. Adults exhibit a unique predation strategy by sealing their cylindrical retreats with a trapdoor, lying in wait to sense the vibrations of passing prey, which they quickly capture with an ambush from their concealed positions.

General Info About Purseweb spider
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Attributes of Purseweb spider
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
Heathland; chalk grassland; grassland; scrub edge
Adult Food Sources
Larger insects, beetles, and other arthropods
Larva Food Source
Small insects like flies, mites, and aphids
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
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Distribution Area of Purseweb spider
It is found in Europe (Netherlands, Germany) and southern England, but ranging as far north as southern Sweden and as far south as North Africa. Its hidden lifestyle makes it a rarely seen species. It is the only British mygalomorph spider. The purse-web spider was previously known from Denmark, but as it had not been seen for 60 years despite persistent searching, it was considered extinct. In 1994, it was rediscovered in Jutland.
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Predators of Purseweb spider Larvae
Ants, wasps, larger spiders, birds, centipedes
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Predators of Adult Purseweb spider
Birds, larger spiders, rodents, wasps, centipedes
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Interesting Facts About Purseweb spider
Unlike typical spiders, purseweb spider constructs a silk-lined tunnel as a trap, extending it above ground to snare passing prey with lightning speed.
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Scientific Classification of Purseweb spider
Tips for Finding Purseweb spider
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Youth Habitat of Purseweb spider
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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Adult Habitat of Purseweb spider
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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How Can You Attract Purseweb spider
Insects that are native to the habitat of purseweb spider, which can be used to lure them out, such as beetles or flies.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Purseweb spider
Dusk or nighttime, as purseweb spider might be more active during these periods due to their nature as predators and their sensitivity to light.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Purseweb spider
Mild and humid conditions, as extreme temperatures can cause purseweb spider to remain hidden and less active, within their underground burrows.
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How and Where Can You Find Purseweb spider at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile purseweb spider can be more difficult to find due to their smaller size. They may be located near the mother’s burrow or in their own small starter burrows. Search for them by looking for tiny silk-lined holes or small silk lids on the ground in forested or grassy areas.
Adult Adult purseweb spider create more noticeable trapdoors lined with silk, which can be found in the ground or on the side of earthen banks. Search for these trapdoors by carefully examining the ground for small, camouflaged doors that blend in with the surrounding soil and vegetation.
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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