Cross orb-weaver (European garden spider)

Gardens, woodland edges, hedgerows, and other places with vegetation or structures for anchoring orb webs; common across Europe and introduced in parts of North America.

Catches and eats flying insects, including flies, mosquitoes, and moths, in a sticky orb web.

Builds a circular web, often replacing it regularly, and waits near its center or in a nearby retreat. Females lay eggs in a silken sac; young spiders disperse by ballooning.

Harmless to people; a bite is rare and usually causes only mild, temporary irritation. It benefits gardens by reducing insect pests.