
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.
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.