Google trend - Flying spiders

Flying spiders - 10 things to know with detail

• There is no such thing as a flying spider. Spiders are arachnids and do not have wings, so they cannot fly like birds or insects.
• Some spiders, such as the spider crab (Misumena vatia) and the golden orb-weaver (Nephila pilipes), are known for their ability to glide or “balloon” through the air using a technique called ballooning. They release silk threads into the air and use the wind to carry them to new locations.
• Ballooning is a common behavior among young spiders, as it helps them disperse and find new habitats. Adult spiders may also use ballooning as a way to escape predators or search for mates.
• The silk threads that spiders use for ballooning are very fine and lightweight, allowing them to be carried long distances by even a gentle breeze. Some spiders can travel hundreds of miles using this method.
• Ballooning spiders are not actively controlling their direction while in the air, so they rely on wind currents to carry them. This can result in spiders landing in unexpected locations, such as on ships at sea or on remote islands.
• Ballooning is not the primary mode of transportation for most spiders, as they typically rely on walking or web-building to catch prey and move around their environment. However, it is a useful method for dispersal and colonization.
• While ballooning spiders may seem like they are flying, they are not capable of sustained flight like birds or insects. They are simply using the wind to carry them for short distances.
• Some spiders have been known to balloon to high altitudes, with reports of spiders being found in the atmosphere at heights of over 3 miles. This behavior has even been observed using weather balloons and radar.
• Ballooning spiders are able to sense air currents and adjust their silk production and release accordingly to take advantage of favorable wind conditions. This allows them to travel long distances and colonize new areas.
• Overall, while the idea of flying spiders may sound like something out of a horror movie, the reality is much more benign. Ballooning is a fascinating and important behavior that helps spiders disperse, find new habitats, and adapt to changing environmental conditions.