Mezium affine "Shiny spider beetle"

Beetles in the order Ptinidae, known as spider beetles and native to Canada, are fascinating creatures often found in abandoned animal nests and untouched, dusty corners of human homes. Their prominent antennae resemble an extra pair of legs, and combined with their compacted head and thorax segments, they mimic an eight-legged, spidery appearance. When disturbed, they curl up and play dead, a behavior that can be quite amusing when dozens drop off a piece of bark simultaneously. Their shiny elytra catch the light beautifully, especially when adults are clustered together.

The larvae of spider beetles are particularly intriguing, as they consume their food source from the inside out and use a silk-like material to patch holes in their dual-purpose food-houses. Although they can be household pests, they are unlikely to be found in most homes due to their slow-moving nature, which makes them vulnerable to modern cleaning devices, and their fused wing-cases, which prevent flight. Some small predators, such as toads, find these beetles quite delicious.