Spider Facts For Kids
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Spiders are fascinating creatures that can be found all around the world. They are known for their eight legs and their ability to spin webs. Read on for some interesting spider facts for kids.
1. Spiders are not insects
Many people think spiders are insects, but they are actually a different kind of arthropod called arachnids. Unlike insects that have three body parts, spiders only have two: the cephalothorax and the abdomen.
2. They have different kinds of webs
The silk that spiders spin is used for a variety of purposes, not just making webs. Some spiders spin nets to catch their prey, while others spin a silk “mattress” to sleep on. Some spiders dangle from a silk thread to move around and escape danger.
3. Spiders eat bugs
Spiders are predators that feed on insects, including flies, mosquitoes, and even other spiders. They catch their prey in their webs or by attacking them when they get close.
4. Some spiders are venomous
While most spiders are harmless to humans, some can pose a danger. Venomous spiders like the black widow and brown recluse can bite people and cause serious health problems. It’s always best to avoid touching any spider you come across in the wild.
5. Spiders shed their skin
As spiders grow, they outgrow their exoskeleton – the hard outer shell that protects their body. To continue growing, they must shed their skin (or molt) and grow a new, larger exoskeleton. After molting, the new exoskeleton is soft and vulnerable until it hardens.
6. They have multiple eyes
Most spiders have eight eyes, but some have six or even two. They use their eyes to detect movement and light, but they rely mostly on their sense of touch to navigate their surroundings.
7. Some spiders can travel long distances
Some spiders are known to “balloon” through the air by shooting silk strands into the wind and riding them to a new location. This allows them to migrate to new areas or escape from danger.
8. Spiders come in all shapes and sizes
There are over 50,000 different species of spiders, each with unique characteristics. Some spiders are as tiny as a pinhead, while others can grow to be larger than a dinner plate.
In conclusion, spiders may seem creepy to some, but they are amazing creatures that play an important role in our ecosystem. By learning more about them, we can better understand and appreciate their place in the natural world.