Bird poo-mimicry spider

Inhabits forests and gardens across Asia and Africa, typically found on the upper surfaces of leaves.

Carnivorous; it preys on insects, particularly flies and butterflies, that are attracted to what they believe is bird waste.

An expert at masquerade, these spiders weave a silk patch on leaves that mimics bird droppings and produce a foul odor to enhance the illusion. They sit motionless in the 'dropping' and pounce when an insect lands to feed on it.

They are harmless to humans. They provide ecosystem benefits as a natural form of pest control by regulating insect populations.