Do Spiders Come Out in Cold Weather?
WouterIf you live in a cold climate, you may wonder, do spiders come out in cold weather? Spiders have developed ways to survive in cold weather, and some species will be active all winter long. While some species will hibernate in their egg sacs or burrow under thick layers of snow, others will emerge when the weather warms up.
Most species of spiders are ectothermic, meaning they are able to change their body temperature depending on the environment. They can bask in the sun if the weather is too cold or seek shelter under rocks if the temperature is too hot. Some species produce a chemical called glycol to help prevent ice from collecting in their tissues. This substance functions like antifreeze in car engines.
Spiders can survive temperatures as low as 23 degrees Fahrenheit. Ice-resistant spiders can live in rock piles, tree bark, or even indoors. However, these animals will usually seek shelter in a location where there is no ice.
When the weather turns cold, most spiders enter diapause. This is a state of torpor that allows them to slow down and conserve energy. Although they can still move around, they will not be able to hunt.
During the cold months, some species of spiders will build web sacs on roofs or siding, or in high corners of buildings. They will also allow snow to cover their web sacs for added insulation. The webs will block cold air from entering the spider’s body.
