Amblypygi

"Do not fret. These creatures are far more nervous of you than it of you."
-Ferdinand Hertalson

While it may look terrifying, the amblypygi, as an ambush predator, is usually non-aggressive. They are also called crab spiders because of their habit of walking sideways.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Amblypygids can grow from eight to over 12 feet in length, weighing over 100 pounds. Their body and head are quite flat and the color is usually a brownish-gray. Similar to other spiders, it has a segmented body and has eight eyes.
The amblypygi is a spider, using six of its legs for walking while its front two limbs are actually feelers. It has large pedipalps, similar to a mantis, that fold horizontally in front of the amblypygi and are designed to impale and hold prey.

Dietary Needs and Habits

"I one time saw an elf walk under a crab spider. Never saw him again."
-Beedle Wanderstone

The amblypygi is an opportunistic predator, usually clinging to a vertical surface and waiting for prey to walk beneath it. At this point, the amblypygi will engage its pedipalps, immobilizing the prey.
While the purpose has yet to be understood, it is believed amblypygids communicate using their feelers, mothers often brushing them against their young.

Biological Cycle

An amblypygi will molt multiple times throughout its life, usually clinging to an inverted surface. Before, during, and a short while after this period, the amblypygi will usually forego eating.

Origin/Ancestry

Vorthali