Trapdoor Spider and Funnelweb Spider
Because both arachnids reside in burrows and exhibit similar behaviors, funnel web spiders and trapdoor spiders are often confused. Males of both species leave their homes to hunt for potential mates, while females remain in the burrow or web and wait for prey. Female funnel web and trapdoor spiders are capable of laying hundreds of eggs at a time.
Funnel Web
The trapdoor spider’s burrow is equipped with a covering, which closes when prey enters. Funnel web spider webs are narrower at one end than the other and do not feature coverings. Rather, the silk strands that comprise the funnel web spider’s burrow vibrate to indicate the presence of prey. Upon this alert, the funnel web spider emerges to attack.
Funnel web spiders can be found primarily in wetland areas and are rarely seen in open spaces. Some of them administer painful bites, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, disorientation and muscle pain. Trapdoor spiders are fairly common and can be found throughout the world. Some species prefer dry, hot environments, while others are drawn to wetlands.