Dark Fishing SpiderDolomedes tenebrosus
Quick facts
- Rarity
- Uncommon
- Active during
- Night
- Found in
- Pollywog Cove
- Length
- 3.5 in
- Wingspan
- 3 in
From the field notes
Hunting
These spiders do not spin webs to catch a meal. Instead, they wait patiently on tree trunks or the forest floor, using sensitive microscopic leg hairs to feel the vibrations of passing prey before striking with lightning speed.
Defense
Their bark-like camouflage makes them practically invisible against trees. If threatened near a shoreline, they will dive below the surface, clinging to submerged rocks and debris until the danger passes.
Water Walking
They are covered in special, water-repellent hairs, which allows them to walk on water. However, unlike other fishing spiders, they are more likely to be found hunting on dry land.
The Nursery
After carrying her round egg sac carefully in her jaws for weeks, a mother spider builds a special, tent-like 'nursery web' in the tall weeds, standing guard nearby until her tiny spiderlings are ready to explore.
Field Marks
Easily identified by their large size, their legs spanning over three full inches. They have distinct banded brown-and-black legs and sharp, W-shaped chevron patterns cascading down the lower abdomen.