Bug Identifier
Orb-weaver Spider (likely an Araneus or Larinioides species)
Community identification

Orb-weaver Spider (likely an Araneus or Larinioides species)

Family Araneidae

Order & Family
Order Araneae, Family Araneidae
Size
Body length typically 5mm to 20mm depending on sex and specific species.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found globally in gardens, forests, fields, and near human structures where they can anchor webs.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on a variety of insects like flies, moths, and mosquitoes caught in their vertical spiral webs.

Behavior Patterns

Known for spinning large, circular 'orb' webs. Many species are nocturnal, rebuilding their webs daily and waiting in the center or a nearby retreat for vibrations from prey.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans; they are reluctant to bite and their venom is not medically significant. Highly beneficial to ecosystems as natural pest controllers.