the Inevitable Spider Appreciation Post

You knew it was coming. Since it's almost Halloween, I decided to do a spider-related post.

I used to be afraid of spiders. But when it came to daddy longlegs, it was full-blown phobia. (Even though technically they are not spiders at all, they are opiliones, but whatever..) 

Everyone used to make fun of me because I was so scared of them. I really have no idea what makes them so scary to me. I think maybe it's because the leg-to-body ratio is so ridiculous.

One day, about 4 years ago, I decided I would try to conquer my fear of spiders. I basically learned everything I could about them. I forced myself to look at pictures of them online and watch videos of them.

After a few months or so of this torture, I could look at a spider without shuddering. Now, I just think they're interesting creatures. I have to get pretty close to these guys to take their picture (like an inch from my lense).

I don't think I will ever completely get over my fear of daddy longlegs, though, but nowdays I can at least look at one without screaming so hard my nose bleeds. (Yes, this actually happened)

                                     Arrowshaped Micrathena - Micrathena sagittata ♀

                                          Goldenrod Crab Spider - Misumena vatia ♀

                                             Arrowhead Spider - Verrucosa arenata

                                                          Platycryptus undatus

                                                            Phidippus putnami

If you can't get enough of my insect photos, you can also check out my Wasp Appreciation Post and my Lepidoptera Appreciation Post.

Comments

[Brenna]

I still can't believe you get so close to these things!