Community identification
Kidney Garden Spider
Araneus mitificus
- Order & Family
- Araneae, Araneidae
- Size
- Females are typically 6-9 mm in body length, while the smaller males are around 3-5 mm.
Natural Habitat
Gardens, low shrubs, and vegetated areas, often building its web on or near human structures.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous, feeding on small insects such as flies, gnats, mosquitoes, and small moths that get caught in its orb-web.
Behavior Patterns
This spider is an orb-weaver, constructing a small, fine, circular web. It is often nocturnal, resting in a retreat made of a rolled-up leaf or silk during the day and waiting in the web's center at night for prey.
Risks & Benefits
Like most orb-weavers, it is not considered dangerous to humans. Its bite is unlikely and the venom is not medically significant. It is beneficial to the environment as it helps control populations of pest insects.