Free virtual class April 4 looks at spiders

By My Courier-Tribune

Spiders are versatile creatures, abundant and important in the wild, suggests experts. People can learn the names and habits of these common house visitors during a free, virtual class called, “These Are the Spiders in Your House program.” It will be offered from 7 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Missouri has more than 300 species of spiders. They are found in grasslands and forests, backyards and sometimes in bathrooms.

“Spiders can startle, but most are harmless. They are valuable eight-legged predators of crop-damaging insects when they weave webs in gardens and crop fields,” states the MDC.

This program will focus on the most common spiders that people see in and near homes. Stephanie Kemp, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center assistant manager, will talk about the role spiders play in nature and offer tips on how to identify them.

The program is open to those 12 and older. To register, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/4XE.