Bird poop spider

Scientific Name: Phrynarachne draytoni

Order & Family: Araneae, Thomisidae

Size: 5 mm to 15 mm (females are significantly larger than males)

Tropical forests, gardens, and shrubbery in Southeast Asia and parts of Africa

Carnivorous; primarily hunts flies and other nectar-seeking insects attracted to the scent of waste

Utilizes aggressive mimicry by resembling bird droppings and producing a similar scent to lure prey; remains motionless for long periods on leaves

Harmless to humans; provides ecosystem benefits through natural pest control by consuming various flying insects

Identified on: 6/23/2026