When Spiders Lay Eggs
When spiders lay eggs, they usually enclose them in a silk egg sac. The sacs vary in size and shape. They can be round or spherical. The egg sacs can contain hundreds of eggs. The sacs are often white or off white, and they are woven with silk thread. Some spiders build their egg sacs inside webs, in burrows, or under bark.
Most spiders create elaborate structures of thick silk to protect their eggs. These silk structures resemble a classic tent. They are also used to provide protection for Jumping Spiders during their hibernation. Some spiders also carry egg sacs in their jaws, fangs, or spinnerets. Some female spiders carry multiple egg sacs.
Some female spiders also use silk to weave a cocoon around their egg sacs. This helps protect them from predators. Some females also hide the sacs under rocks or plant stalks. They may continue to carry their egg sacs until their spiderlings emerge.
The egg sacs of some species are large, with hundreds of eggs. Others have smaller sacs. The color of the eggs can vary from pearly white to green.
Spiders lay their eggs during the spring and fall. Some species will have four to twelve molts before becoming fully mature. Male spiders have shorter bodies than females and go through fewer molts.
The egg sacs of some species have a smooth surface and can be seen under a magnifying glass. The surface can also be spiked.