Why Do Spiders Spin Webs?

Spiders make webs to catch their prey. While some spiders create simple webs to wait for their prey, others build elaborate ones. These elaborate webs are used for a variety of reasons. Some species use them to lure in prey, while others cast them over prey to scare them into submission.

To construct a spider web, the spider starts by building a frame of threads. The first strand is called the bridge thread. After that, the spider moves back and forth adding more threads.

A spider’s silk is a molecular substance that is five times stronger than steel. It is made in specialized internal glands. When spun into a web, the silk is flexible, and able to expand to trap prey.

One of the reasons that spiders make such a complicated web is that it is a good way to gather food. The vibrations that the threads make alert the spider to the motions of its prey. In turn, the spider uses these vibrations to locate and catch its prey.

Another reason that spiders spin the web is for protection. They line burrows and homes with their webs. Besides providing a semblance of protection, webs can also be used as an alarm system.

Another great use of spider silk is to build nets. These threads can be beaded and spun to form a number of different types. Several insects, such as honeybees, use silk to strengthen wax cells.

Other creatures, such as birds, are able to avoid a spider’s web by weaving intricate patterns. However, scientists aren’t sure how they do this.