What Do Black Widow Spiders Eat?

Black Widow Spiders are carnivorous arachnids, primarily consuming other insects and small arachnids.

• Insects: These form the majority of the Black Widow Spider's diet. They include flies, mosquitoes, and beetles.
• Arachnids: Black Widow Spiders also prey on other smaller spiders and scorpions.
• Small Invertebrates: Occasionally, they consume small invertebrates such as millipedes and woodlice.
• Small Reptiles and Mammals: In rare circumstances, Black Widow Spiders have been known to eat small lizards and mice if they get caught in their web.

How do Black Widow Spiders Eat?

Black widow spiders eat by injecting venom into their prey to immobilize it, then using their fangs to create a hole, and finally secreting digestive enzymes to liquefy the prey's insides which are then sucked up.

• Black widow locates and captures prey
• Injects venom to paralyze
• Creates a hole using fangs
• Secretes digestive enzymes to liquefy prey
• Sucks up the liquid nutrients

What do Black Widow Spiders Drink?

Black Widow Spiders, like most spiders, primarily consume liquids from their prey after liquefying their insides. They also drink water for hydration.

• Prey's Inner Fluids: They inject venom into their prey, which liquefies their insides. They then consume this fluid.
• Water: They drink water for hydration, often from dew or droplets left after rainfall.

FAQs about Black Widow Spiders

1. How often do Black Widow Spiders eat?

Black Widow Spiders typically eat once or twice a week.

2. How long can a Black Widow Spiders live without eating?

A Black Widow Spider can survive without eating for around two to three months.

3. What do Larvae Black Widow Spiders eat?

Larvae Black Widow Spiders mainly eat tiny insects, including their siblings if food is scarce.