Scytodes thoracica

The “Spitting Spider” is opportunistic and will capture and eat any insect or spider it is able to subdue with its spray of venom-soaked silk and glue. The spider typically stalks the prey until it can get within 10-15 millimetres of it, and then “spits.” The sticky substance is expelled so forcefully that the fangs and chelicerae (jaws) oscillate and cause the spray to come out in a zigzag pattern. After the “spit” has made contact, it actually shrinks by about 40-60%, which helps to further constrict and immobilize the prey. Once the prey is stuck down and unable to escape, the spider moves in to bite and inject venom. It then backs away momentarily to wait for the toxin to take effect before beginning to feed.