Why do spiders wrap up the bugs that they catch on their webs?

Question

When a bug gets caught on the web, the spider rushes down starts wrapping it up and then brings it to the center of the web and eats it.

Why does it do this?

Answer 1

I'm guessing thats because they don't want it to get away, maybe its easier to eat it when its wrapped up idk lol, watch Charlottes Webb I think she explains it =]

Answer 2

The wrapping does several things:

1) Immobilizes the bug so it cannot get away.

2) Allows the spider to keep track of the food supply. Somehow the wrapping process helps the spider remember where on the web the bug is located.

3) The spider wraps the bug, then injects it with a venom that liquifies the insides.  The wrapping holds the thing together, so that the next day, the spider can go back, insert its tongue (it is like a straw) and suck-up a nice protein meal.  

4) The wrapping also insulates the bug carcass from the outside world, wind, weather, other critters, etc.  This means that the meal will be nice, and safe, and well digested for tomorrow's breakfast.

Delicious, no?

Well, there ya go.  Out of all your worries, trials, tribulations, and problems, you are not a spider eating protein shakes that used to be your neighbor....