Bothriocyrtum californicum
Color: Dark brown to black, glossy on top
Size: 0.75 – 1.5 inches (2- 4 cm)
Shape: Feathered abdomen, leg suitable for digging
Diet: Insects, arthropods and worms
Habitat: California
They build vertical nests 20 cm deep, lined with silk.
It lurks under the trap and senses vibration.
It catches its prey with its teeth.
Females can live up to 20 years.
Males live shorter.
Increasing urbanization and agricultural development threaten habitats.
Seeing the silk-lined traps they have laid.
Seeing dead insects and their parts.
They are very rarely seen alive.