Insects: Spiders often prey on various types of insects, such as flies, ants, beetles, moths, butterflies, grasshoppers, and crickets. They use their webs to capture flying insects or actively hunt for them on surfaces.
Other arthropods: Some spiders also feed on other arthropods, including centipedes, millipedes, scorpions, pseudoscorpions, and other spiders. These prey provide a rich source of nutrients for the spiders.
Small vertebrates: Certain spider species may also prey on small vertebrates like lizards, frogs, snakes, fish, and even small rodents or birds. These predators use their venom and silk to subdue and capture their vertebrate prey.
Plant material: While rare, some spider species are known to consume plant materials such as pollen, nectar, and plant sap. This behavior is more common in crab spiders and flower spiders.
Blood-feeding: A few spider species, such as the vampire spider, feed on the blood of vertebrates, including humans, livestock, and birds. They pierce the skin of their victims and suck their blood.
Overall, spiders are opportunistic predators that play an essential role in controlling insect populations and maintaining ecosystem balance. Their varied diet allows them to adapt to different habitats and thrive in diverse environments.