
Community identification
Bird Poop Spider
Phrynarachne decipiens
- Order & Family
- Araneae, Thomisidae
- Size
- 10 to 15 mm for females; males are significantly smaller.
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.