Southern Trapdoor Spider & Firing

Almost every day I feel lucky to discover and learn something new in nature. Yesterday I had the rare opportunity to see a Southern Trapdoor Spider, Ummidia sp. At first I thought the two inch spider looked like a tarantula but after spending an hour or so searching and researching I found out this is a Trapdoor Spider. Normally these spiders stay in their den but when heavy rains cause flooding they sometimes must venture out.

I know many of you don't like spiders but if  you can get past your squeamishness just for a minute and watch this video you will be amazed at how the spider catches it's prey. And remember these spiders are helping to control cricket, grasshopper, and other insect populations around your home.



Trapdoor spiders have been known to live for up to twenty years. If you watch the video you can see how efficient a trapdoor spider is at capturing prey. The spider waits till the cricket is just past the trap door and in one quick movement he opens the door, captures the cricket, and retreats back in the den with the trapdoor falling back in place. The spider isn't exposed to any predators for more than a second or two. No wonder they live so long.

I am firing a bisque load today and glazing tomorrow and firing again later this week. We are finally entering a better summer weather pattern. Better because the constant rain seems to have ended. Thanks for reading and for all your comments.