See a Bird Get Completely Stuck in a Massive Spider Web

The versatile webs spiders spin are truly a wonder of nature. They are amazingly well-built enough to catch all kinds of insects. However, imagine a spider that can craft a web strong enough to snag a bird! In the video below, that’s what’s happened, and let’s just say things don’t look good for the bird. A good effort is made to Houdini out of this sticky situation, but the tricky grasp of a spider web is just too difficult to break free from! Thankfully, this clip doesn’t include mealtime for the lucky arachnid!

This footage was taken in the Olifants River Game Reserve, which is found in South Africa. The hapless flier that’s been trapped by a concealed web appears to be a blue waxbill. Conversely, the owner of the web is likely an orb spider, a special kind of critter adept at weaving unique webs.

Make sure to not wander (or fly!) into a hidden cobweb, and let’s examine these animals in more detail.

Do Spiders Eat Birds?

Spiders prey on a variety of creepy crawlies, but birds are not usually on the menu. However, orb weavers in particular build webs in a way that occasionally leads to birds and bats getting snared in them. While not the expected catch of the day, they’ll gladly enjoy anything that gets tangled up in their trap. When they’re not chowing down on rare, unexpected treats, spiders usually hunt a range of nuisance insects.

Oddly enough, that means most spiders are more beneficial to have around than not. They aren’t destructive in any fashion, and will generally leave people alone if left to their own devices. If you happen to dislike spiders for any reason, please feel free to completely disregard the sentiment!

Are Orb Weavers Dangerous?

If you are a small insect, bird, or bat, then the answer is a resounding “yes!” However, despite their intimidating looks, orb weavers pose no real threat to humans or pets. Surprised? Although these frightful eight-legged beasts are indeed venomous, their bite is intended for very tiny prey. In larger animals, a defensive nip has been described as hurting as much as a bee sting. Obviously, it’s best to avoid annoying spiders in the first place, much less getting bitten by one!

See How Real the Struggle Is