Halloween fake spider web decorations present real hazard to birds, small mammals, wildlife experts say

Fake spiderwebs stretched across trees and hedges as part of outdoor Halloween decor can cause a real fright and even injury to songbirds and small mammals, Long Island wildlife experts said.

The decoration is made of synthetic fibers that can trap small feet and delicate wings.

"I’ve had migrating songbirds that get caught up in it," said licensed wildlife rehabilitator Bobby Horvath, of the nonprofit Wildlife in Need of Rescue and Rehabilitation. "The birds struggle and it causes feather damage. They can even die from stress."

Many of the young migrating songbirds are leaving home for the first time and may not recognize these hazards, said Rose Lynch, an animal care staff in the hospital at the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center in Hampton Bays, which gets between 2,500 and 3,000 patients a year.

"They need space to hide from predators as they explore," said Lynch, who is also a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. "People’s hedges are so important to them and they need to get in there quickly to avoid other hazards like dogs, cats or kids."

Lynch said these birds also need to be able to perch as they eat berries or catch bugs.

"Cobwebs are an issue because they can cause constriction injuries around their toes and it immobilizes them," she said. "Bats can also get caught and they have such delicate wings."

"It just feels like something that is so unnecessary," Lynch said of the potentially dangerous decor.

Horvath pointed out the fake cobwebs are an issue during Halloween season. Nets for soccer, lacrosse and other sports can be dangerous to large and small animals — including deer and owls — year-round.

"They are made of the same material," Lynch said. "They are made of plastic materials that don’t break."

A better option may be the large webs made of thick rope with knots that are spread out, she said.

Halloween can also cause hazards to pets, veterinarians said. Chocolate and candy with the artificial sweetener xylitol are considered toxic to dogs and cats. Pets should also be microchipped and wearing tags with identification in case they get out of the house during parties and festivities. 

By Lisa L. Colangelo

lisa.colangelo@newsday.com@lisalcolangelo

Lisa joined Newsday as a staff writer in 2019. She previously worked at amNewYork, the New York Daily News and the Asbury Park Press covering politics, government and general assignment.