When it comes to spiders, Wyoming may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, recent sightings have shed light on the fascinating spider species that call this state home. One such sighting is the folding door spider, a rare species of trapdoor spider similar to tarantulas, which was recently documented in Lincoln County.
Trapdoor spiders, including the folding door spider, are native to the western and midwestern United States. Often found in burrows alongside roadside banks or in ravines, these spiders can be quite intimidating in appearance. However, they pose no harm to humans. With a maximum size of two inches, their venomous bite, while not lethal, may require medical attention.
Key Takeaways:
- Wyoming recently had its first documented sighting of a folding door spider, a rare species of trapdoor spider.
- Trapdoor spiders are native to the western and midwestern United States and are often found in burrows.
- While trapdoor spiders can look terrifying, they are not harmful to humans.
- Their venomous bite, although not lethal, may require medical attention.
Spider Enthusiasts in Wyoming: Breeding and Selling Tarantulas
In Rawlins, Wyoming, there is a passionate spider enthusiast named KeeGan Johnson who has transformed his love for tarantulas into a thriving business called Outhouse Oddities. Together with his wife, Michaela, they breed and sell a wide variety of tarantula species, catering to spider enthusiasts and customers all across the United States.
KeeGan’s fascination with tarantulas began when he stumbled upon a captivating video showcasing the beauty and diversity of these arachnids. Intrigued by their colors and unique characteristics, he decided to delve deeper into the world of tarantulas and eventually turned his passion into a successful breeding endeavor.
Through their Facebook page and message board, the Johnsons connect with fellow spider enthusiasts, providing them with a platform to share their knowledge, experiences, and love for these eight-legged creatures. Their dedication and expertise in tarantula breeding have garnered them a loyal customer base, and their commitment to quality and care has made Outhouse Oddities a trusted name in the tarantula community.
Spider Enthusiasts in Wyoming: Breeding and Selling Tarantulas
| Tarantula Species | Size | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Small Dwarf Tarantulas | 2-3 inches | Compact size, suitable for beginners |
| Goliath Tarantulas | 8-10 inches | Impressive size, known for their docile nature |
| Red-kneed Tarantulas | 4-6 inches | Distinctive red coloration on their knees |
| Mexican Redleg Tarantulas | 5-7 inches | Beautiful orange coloration on their legs |
Despite initially having a fear of spiders, Michaela has wholeheartedly embraced her husband’s passion and actively participates in the care and breeding of tarantulas. She has even given names to some of the tarantulas kept as pets, fostering a personal connection with these fascinating creatures.
Thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of spider enthusiasts like KeeGan and Michaela Johnson, the world of tarantula breeding continues to thrive, offering spider lovers the opportunity to appreciate and explore the captivating world of these eight-legged wonders.
Common Spiders Found in Wyoming
Wyoming is home to a diverse range of spider species. Whether you’re hiking in a national park or simply exploring your backyard, it’s likely that you’ll encounter some of these eight-legged creatures. Here are some of the common spiders found in Wyoming:
Wolf Spiders
Wolf spiders are abundant in Wyoming and can be found in various habitats. They are typically ground-dwelling creatures and do not create webs to catch prey. Instead, they actively hunt and pounce on their victims. Wolf spiders can vary in size and coloration, but they are generally brown or gray with distinct patterns on their bodies.
Cellar Spiders
Cellar spiders, also known as daddy longlegs, are commonly found in homes and buildings throughout Wyoming. They are often seen in corners or basements, where they spin irregular and messy webs. While their appearance may be off-putting to some, cellar spiders are actually beneficial as they help control the population of other insects, including venomous spiders.
Crab Spiders
Crab spiders are known for their ability to change color and blend in with their surroundings. They are often found near flowers and use their camouflage to ambush unsuspecting prey. Crab spiders do not spin webs but instead rely on their agility and stealth to catch their meals.
Daring Jumping Spiders
Daring jumping spiders are small but agile hunters. They are known for their impressive jumping ability, which they use to pounce on their prey. These spiders have excellent eyesight and can often be seen exploring their surroundings, ready to spring into action.
American Grass Spiders
American grass spiders, also known as funnel-web spiders, are commonly found in grassy areas, gardens, and fields. They create funnel-shaped webs that serve as both a shelter and a trap for their prey. American grass spiders are fast and can move quickly to capture their victims.
| Spider Species | Habitat | Web Type |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf Spiders | Various habitats | No web |
| Cellar Spiders | Homes and buildings | Irregular webs |
| Crab Spiders | Near flowers | No web |
| Daring Jumping Spiders | Various habitats | No web |
| American Grass Spiders | Grassy areas | Funnel-shaped webs |
Notable Wyoming Spiders: Black Widows and Fishing Spiders
Wyoming is home to some notable spider species, including the venomous Black Widow. These spiders are easily identifiable by the distinctive red hourglass mark on their abdomen. While Black Widows are not aggressive towards humans, their bites can be dangerous and should be treated as a medical emergency. If bitten by a Black Widow, seek immediate medical attention.
Another fascinating spider species found in Wyoming is the Fishing Spider, also known as the Dock spider or Wharf spider. These spiders are typically large in size and are commonly found near water sources. They are known for their unique ability to run on water and catch prey, including small fish. Fishing spiders are nocturnal creatures that prefer to stay close to their aquatic habitats.
Both Black Widows and Fishing Spiders play important roles in Wyoming’s ecosystem. While Black Widows may be venomous, they help to control the population of other insects in the area. Fishing Spiders, on the other hand, contribute to the balance of aquatic ecosystems by preying on small fish and insects that live near or in the water.
Table: Venomous Spiders Found in Wyoming
| Spider Species | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Black Widow | Venomous with a red hourglass mark on abdomen | Diverse habitats across Wyoming |
| Fishing Spider | Large spider with the ability to run on water | Near water sources in Wyoming |
Conclusion
Wyoming is home to a diverse range of spider species, showcasing the richness of its spider diversity. From trapdoor spiders like the recently sighted folding door spider to common species like Wolf spiders, Cellar spiders, Crab spiders, Daring Jumping spiders, and American grass spiders, the state offers a wide variety of arachnid inhabitants. Notably, Wyoming is also home to the venomous Black Widow spiders and the fascinating Fishing spiders.
While some of these spiders may evoke fear and intimidation, it is important to recognize their significance in Wyoming’s ecosystem. These spiders play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance through pest control and prey regulation. Their presence contributes to the overall health and biodiversity of the region.
Recent tarantula sightings, like the folding door spider, add to our knowledge and understanding of Wyoming’s spider population. These occurrences provide valuable insights into the distribution and behavior of these captivating creatures. Moreover, spider enthusiasts, such as the Johnsons with their tarantula breeding business, contribute to the fascination and appreciation of Wyoming’s spider species.
By embracing the diversity of Wyoming’s spider population, we gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world around us. So, let us continue to observe, study, and marvel at the intricate lives of these remarkable arachnids.
