Spiders

Created: May 30, 2022 10:27 AM

Spiders belong to the arachnids and are therefore related to both mites and scorpions. They are recognised by their eight legs, the gripping jaws at the front, and the spinnerets at the back. They usually have eight eyes. Female spiders are, on the whole, larger than the male. Spiders are predators that hunt other small creatures. Their hunting methods vary from species to species. Some spin fine catch-webs to catch flies and midges — while others make pitfall traps where ants and small creatures can fall in. Still other spiders hunt actively, like wolves. The great majority of spiders have venom with which they kill their small prey — but fortunately there are no spiders that are dangerous to humans in Norway. Despite this, many people are afraid of spiders. Perhaps we have an inherited fear of things that were dangerous to humans back when we lived as hunters and gatherers in warmer parts of the world? Whatever the cause, there is little point in being afraid of small creatures in Norwegian nature — and a phobia of spiders can, in the worst case, be so limiting that one avoids healthy outdoor activities! If you are so afraid of spiders that you dare not venture into the forest, it is possible to get help from a psychologist. There is no shame in seeking help, and it is never too late!

Next steps

• Animals and tracks — the hub
• The adder — other small creatures
• Small rodents — other small game

Learn more

• Artsdatabanken — species, status, the Red List
• Miljødirektoratet — large carnivores — management
• NINA — Norwegian Institute for Nature Research — research on Norwegian fauna
• Naturveilederen — Bjørn Henrik Stavdal Johansen — nature interpretation