Net-casting spiders use their silk to build a unique but deadly weapon – a stamp-sized net, which they use to enclose victims with a lightning-quick movement
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Moths, ants and other spiders are among the hapless victims of these long-legged, large-eyed super predators
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The hunter meticulously sets its trap: first it leaves white faeces on the ground as target points and then, with its prepared net held between its front legs, it hangs on a thread, lying in wait. When an unsuspecting creature crosses its trap, the spider stretches its net and bears down with incredible speed.
Once it's trapped its target, it quickly bites its victim and wraps it up ready to eat.
These extraordinary silken nets are not the only weapon belonging to the spiders. The arachnids’ huge eyes help them see well in low light, and have earned them the alternative name “ogre-faced spiders”.
See slow-motion footage of a net-casting spider strike
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