Nature’s Calling – Velvet spider
These harmless spiders are quite common in gardens in the Durban South area.
The velvet spider reminds me of a little teddy bear.
These harmless spiders are quite common in gardens in the Durban South area. While there are a few different species of the velvet spider, the most common ones that I find are black or grey in colour. These chubby little spiders are covered in fine hairs which makes them look velvety, hence their common name. They rarely grow larger then a one rand coin.
These spiders are often found under building rubble, stones and rotting logs, where they make messy, bluish white shroud like retreats. These spiders are very reluctant to leave their webs, even once disturbed, one usually has to gently pry them out to see them. They are reluctant to bite, however, even if one should bite you, their venom is harmless.
They feed on any ground living insects that they can overpower.
If you would like to make contact with Warren to have some of your interesting insects, snakes or spiders identified, send him a WhatsApp or call him on 072-211-0353.
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