They're creepy and crawly and most of us shriek when we see one but really spiders are one of the most helpful bugs around. Here are some interesting spider facts:
Spiders have little arms next to their fangs to hold prey. These are called pedipalps.
Most spiders have 8 eyes but some do have fewer.
Male spiders are generally smaller than female.
The large 'Bird Eating' spider is native to South America and can catch prey as large as small bats in it's web. This spider is part of the tarantula family.
Some spiders will fish with their silk. They swing it through the air with a sticky bit on the end to catch prey in mid-air.
Some spiders like the European Water Spider and the Fishing Spider will swim. The Fishing Spider will row across the water with it's front four legs.
Want to know more about arachnids? Check out our online database International Wildlife.
