Spiders might not be everyone’s favorite house guest, but trapdoor spiders deserve some attention for their fascinating habits and unique behavior. While they don’t often cause trouble for homeowners, spotting these elusive arachnids in your yard or garden might still send shivers down your spine. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a homeowner, or even a pool contractor sprucing up a backyard, knowing how to identify and manage these burrowing critters can save you a lot of hassle.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about trapdoor spiders, from their physical characteristics and curious behaviors to some surprising facts and tips on keeping them at bay. If you’ve stumbled across a small, camouflaged burrow or are simply curious about this lesser-known spider, you’re in the right place!
Trapdoor Spider Identification
Physical Characteristics
Trapdoor spiders are masters of staying hidden, but once spotted, they’re quite easy to recognize. These spiders are medium to large-sized, typically ranging between 1 and 1.5 inches in length, with females being slightly larger than males. Their bodies are robust and compact, covered in a hard, shiny exoskeleton that is usually dark brown to black in color. A closer look will reveal hairy legs, which help them feel vibrations, and prominent fangs that they use to hunt prey.
Unlike other spiders, their body is segmented into two parts: a broad abdomen and a noticeably sturdy cephalothorax (that’s spider-speak for “head and thorax combined”). If you find a spider resembling this description while building an inground swimming pool or exploring a garden, chances are you’ve encountered a trapdoor spider.
Unique Behaviors
Trapdoor spiders are best known for their incredible architectural skills. They create silken-lined burrows in the ground and craft a “trapdoor” lid using soil, leaves, and webbing to blend perfectly with their surroundings. This camouflage makes the entrance almost invisible to the untrained eye.
When it’s time to eat, these spiders display their ambush predator prowess. They lie in wait beneath their trapdoor, sensing vibrations from unsuspecting prey. As soon as a cricket, beetle, or small insect wanders too close—bam!—they burst out of their burrow with lightning speed to capture their meal. If you’ve ever noticed these small, perfectly round burrows in gardens or lawns, that’s the handiwork of a trapdoor spider.
Fascinating Facts About Trapdoor Spiders
Lifespan and Life Cycle
One of the most remarkable things about trapdoor spiders is their longevity. While many spider species live for just a year or two, trapdoor spiders can live up to 20 years! This makes them one of the longest-living arachnids on the planet. The females, who spend most of their lives inside their burrows, tend to live longer than the wandering males.
Their life cycle begins when spiderlings hatch inside the mother’s burrow. Once mature, males venture out in search of mates, while females remain in the safety of their burrow, tending to their webs and waiting for prey. This dedication to their underground homes contributes significantly to their survival.
Venom and Danger
Here’s the good news: while trapdoor spiders might look intimidating, they’re generally not dangerous to humans. Their venom, though potent for insects and small pests, is not harmful to us. Bites are rare, as these spiders are shy and non-aggressive, preferring to retreat into their burrows when disturbed.
However, if you’re a pool builder or landscaper accidentally unearthing their habitat, you might provoke one into defending itself. While the bite can be painful and cause minor swelling, it’s not medically significant for most people.
Role in the Ecosystem
Trapdoor spiders play an essential role in nature. As natural pest controllers, they keep insect populations in check, feeding on beetles, crickets, and other small creatures. This makes them an ally for gardeners and residential pool contractors trying to maintain a clean, pest-free environment.
Additionally, their burrowing activity helps aerate the soil, which improves its overall health. So, while their presence might seem unsettling, they’re actually doing more good than harm.
How to Get Rid of Trapdoor Spiders
Prevention Methods
The best way to manage trapdoor spiders is to make your yard less inviting to them. Start by sealing cracks and entry points around your home’s foundation, doors, and windows. Trapdoor spiders prefer dry, loose soil, so keep gardens and landscaping areas tidy. Remove debris, rocks, and wood piles, which can act as shelter or prime real estate for their burrows.
Controlling moisture levels around your home is equally important. Regular maintenance of your lawn, flower beds, and perimeter can discourage burrow-building spiders. Whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial pool contractor, these simple steps can prevent unwanted guests from setting up camp.
Natural Solutions
If you prefer eco-friendly options, there are several natural ways to discourage trapdoor spiders. Sprinkling diatomaceous earth around suspected burrows can deter spiders without harming plants or pets. Similarly, vinegar and essential oils like peppermint or citrus are natural repellents that spiders dislike.
Encouraging natural predators, such as birds and small mammals, can also help. Install bird feeders or maintain a garden habitat that attracts wildlife to keep spider populations in check.
Safe DIY Control
For homeowners confident in tackling trapdoor spider burrows, DIY removal can be an option. Start by locating the burrow—look for round, silk-lined holes with hinged lids. Using a shovel or similar tool, carefully dig out the spider and its burrow. Wear gloves and use caution to avoid bites.
If you’re unsure or dealing with multiple burrows, it’s best to leave the task to professionals.
Professional Pest Control
Sometimes, trapdoor spiders can become a persistent issue. If prevention and DIY methods haven’t worked, it may be time to call in the experts. Professional pest control services can locate and remove burrows efficiently, ensuring that spiders don’t return. if you are in Canada you can call Orented pest control Vaughan for free Quote.
For those working on landscaping or residential pool projects, pest control can ensure the area remains spider-free for your clients. Professionals use targeted treatments that are safe for the environment while eliminating the problem at its source.
Conclusion
Trapdoor spiders may look intimidating, but they’re fascinating creatures that play a vital role in pest control and soil health. With their unique trapdoor burrows and impressive hunting skills, these spiders are one of nature’s most effective ambush predators.
While they aren’t dangerous to humans, managing their presence around your home or property is crucial for peace of mind. By combining prevention, natural solutions, and professional pest control when needed, you can ensure your yard, garden, or worksite remains spider-free. Whether you’re a homeowner, gardener, or pool contractor, these tips will help you handle trapdoor spiders with confidence.
So, embrace the wonders of nature—just from a safe distance! With the right approach, you can coexist with these fascinating creatures while keeping your environment clean and pest-free.