I put this course together mostly from species around my yard. That makes it applicable to yours, especially if you are in the southeastern U.S. I examine what it takes to be classified as a spider, the different adaptations packaged in each body part, the nature of spider silk, and the identification of the common species. At the end of the course, you will be able to do the following.

1.    Identify over thirty species of spiders common in residential and woodland settings
2.    Describe basic aspects of spider natural history
3.    Appreciate the relationships between spiders and their environment
4.    Feel confident and equipped in moving forward into your own study of spiders

The course is comprised of 12 video lectures and over 2 hours of video content. Topics include the following.

What is a Spider?

Nature of the Cephalothorax

Nature of the Abdomen

Nature of Spider Silk

Identifying Common Spiders of the Southeast (we cover thirty species in this course)

• Big Orbweavers

• Small Orweavers

• Orbweavers with spines

• Webless Spiders

• Household Spiders

• Venomous Spiders

You will have access to a discussion board to ask questions or post content from your own spider adventures. An optional, end-of-course quiz is available at the conclusion of the lectures. This can be used as a learning tool, taken several times, or avoided altogether. You may access the course for one year.