For example, if the place where they live, their habitat, is cold or has too much rain or light or enemies are around, some spiders build tents that they use as retreats or hiding places to find shelter from all of this. These spiders roll up a leaf, wrap it and secure it with silk threads. They go into the shelter until they feel safe enough to come out. This way spiders can live under difficult conditions in different parts of the world. Some types of spiders use the tents to jump down on unsuspecting prey.
Some spiders build tents underwater.
An aquatic spider builds her tent in the shape of a bell and fills it with air. Other spiders make complete envelopes out of very tough silk for themselves and their eggs until the spiderlings are capable of taking care of themselves. Spiders do not live in captivity for a long time. Males die soon after they mate, but if kept alone in captivity they may linger for several weeks, usually refusing to eat. Females, on the other hand, live longer.