Bug Identifier
Bird Poop Spider
Community identification

Bird Poop Spider

Phrynarachne decipiens

Order & Family
Araneae, Thomisidae
Size
10 to 15 mm for females; males are significantly smaller.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found primarily in Southeast Asia and parts of Australia, typically on the leaves of rainforest plants.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; it feeds on various insects, particularly flies and other small winged insects that are attracted to what appears to be bird droppings.

Behavior Patterns

This spider is a master of mimicry, resembling bird droppings to hide from predators and lure prey. It rests on a small web that enhances the illusion of liquid fecal matter. It can also produce a scent that mimics the smell of bird waste.

Risks & Benefits

They pose no significant risk to humans and are not medically important. They benefit the ecosystem by controlling the populations of small insects.