Ologies with Alie Ward Araneology (SPIDERS) with Marshal Hedin
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May 14, 2025 
Join Dr. Marshal Hedin, a passionate arachnologist from San Diego State University, as he explores the quirky world of spiders. Discover why some spiders have surprising friends, like frogs, and learn how to identify the harmless ones. Hedin debunks myths surrounding arachnophobia, while discussing the importance of spider conservation and their ecological roles. With humor and fascinating anecdotes, he sheds light on the intricate biology of these often-misunderstood creatures, making even the most fearful reconsider their stance on spiders!
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Most Spiders Are Harmless
- Only about 100 out of 38,000 spider species have venom dangerous to humans.
- That's roughly 0.0025%, highlighting that most spiders pose no significant threat.
Overcome Arachnophobia with Exposure
- Fight spider fear by distinguishing fear from surprise and by gradual exposure.
- Start with looking at photos, then observe spiders at a distance to rewire your brain.
Trapdoor Spider's 43-Year Life
- A female trapdoor spider named number 16 was observed for 43 years in the wild.
- Her life inspired arachnologist Dr. Barbara York Main until her death shortly after the study's publication.
