Spitter Spider

Spitter Spiders are a slow-moving threat predator that hunts its prey using a paralyzing needle attack. As the less energetic cousins of the Wolf Spider, the two look similar but behave differently. Spitters are found exclusively in hardmode.

Appearance
With a black body and six long legs, the Spitter Spider could be mistaken for any spider if not for the collection of red spines sticking from its back. Tips of needles the Spitter fires from its mouth have the same red coloration at its spines. Each needle has an elongated sac on its end, likely storing the paralyzing toxin.

Behavior
Spitter Spiders are much slower than Wolf Spiders, preferring to hunt alone and avoid close combat. They attack by spitting dart maggots in short bursts of three or four, which have a delayed and temporary paralyzing effect on creatures including the slugcat. Each successful hit of the darts increases the speed of the paralyzing effect on the target: getting hit by one dart allows for 5 seconds of normal movement before paralysis sets in, two darts means a 3 second delay, and three darts will near immediately knock out the target. Unconsciousness can last for several seconds, enough time for the Spitter to carefully approach and grab prey.

Evasion
If hit by a projectile, fleeing or attacking is recommended. Stabbing with a spear before being knocked out is feasible, but more of a risk. You can easily recover, but might not have enough time if too close. Line-of-sight is important for these creatures; hiding for long enough makes them lose interest. It is best to stay on a level above or below them, but beware that darts can be spat down or up.

Regions
Spitter Spiders can be found in Shaded Citadel, Subterranean, The Exterior, Farm Arrays or Chimney Canopy as Red Slugcat.