European Garden Spider, Cross Orb-weaver
Scientific Name: Araneus diadematus
Order & Family: Araneae (Spiders), Araneidae (Orb-weavers)
Size: Females typically 10-18 mm, males 5-8 mm.
Natural Habitat
Gardens, woodlands, fields, and around human dwellings. They prefer open, sunny areas to build their webs.
Diet & Feeding
Mainly flies, mosquitoes, moths, and other small flying insects caught in their orb webs.
Behavior Patterns
Known for spinning large, intricate orb webs, often rebuilt daily. The spider typically waits in the center of the web or in a nearby retreat, sensing vibrations from trapped prey. Females are larger than males and may consume males after mating.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans; their venom is not considered dangerous, though a bite can cause localized pain and swelling. They are highly beneficial in gardens and agricultural settings due to their role in controlling insect populations, including common pests.
Identified on: 9/20/2025