Britannica online reveals the following information about Trapdoor spiders,

“Trap-door spiders construct burrows in the ground; at the entrance they build a silken-hinged door.  The spider feeds by quickly opening the trap door and grabbing an insect that is passing close by.  The door, often camouflaged, usually exceeds 2.5 cm (1 inch) in width.  Tunnels off the main tube may also have doors.  The spiders remain in the tube except when hunting.  They are timid and quickly retreat into the tube if frightened.”

There have been a few other historical observations of Trapdoor spiders at El Mesteño Ranch and Arboretum.  Once upon a time, a brilliant, turquoise-colored Trapdoor spider, Ummidia funerea, came out after a rain back on February 8, 2019.  A year or so later, on May 23, 2020, a Southwestern Trapdoor spider was washed out of its tunnel by rain.  On the very next day, May 24, 2020, a Texas Brown tarantula was also washed out of its home due to rain.   

If you would like to read more about “The Southwestern Trapdoor Spider,” please click on “Fall 2023 Chachalaca” for a link that will take you to where you will find the rest of this nature story.

“Fall 2023 Chachalaca”

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While very common in south Texas, the Red Velvet Mite spends most of its time underground. After a rain, however, they’ll burrow to the surface and see what’s to eat!
Check the gallery to see additional pics of these and other critters!

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