European Garden Spider (or Cross Orb-weaver)

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

Insectivorous; primarily feeds on flying insects caught in its web, such as flies, moths, and mosquitoes.

Crepuscular and nocturnal; they build large orb webs and often sit in the center with their heads down. They periodically rebuild their webs by consuming the old silk to recycle proteins.

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest populations. They are not aggressive; while they can bite if extremely provoked or handled, the venom is harmless to humans and comparable to a mild bee sting.