#orb-weaving spiders

[zoologyverse]

Araneus (orb-weaving spiders)

Male spiders (Araneus) in this genus are typically 1⁄3 to 1⁄4 the size of females, making them possibly the most blatant example of sexual dimorphism in the whole orb-weaver family. For instance, last-molt females in A. diadematus can develop up to 1 in (2.5 cm) in body size, whereas most males rarely grow past 0.3 in (1 cm), both discounting leg span. Longer legs, a considerably smaller and more…

Araneus (orb-weaving spiders)

[kris-is-lonesome]

Just gonna keep putting things on my face.. :I

[regardingnature]

Garden Orb-weaver.  Probably the most common spiders you'll encounter, whether in the city or suburban backyard.  Orb-weavers spin the classic "bulls-eye" web with concentric rings sometimes reaching two feet in diameter.  As carnivores, these spiders spin webs to catch flying insect.  Despite their eight eyes, orb-weavers have poor vision so they rely on sensing vibrations to capture prey.  

While I have no data to back this up, it seems like Seattle has a much higher density of Garden Orb-weavers than Cambridge.  Every morning there are multiple webs on the porch and sidewalks.  Amazingly most orb-weavers dismantle (by eating) their web each evening and build a fresh one to catch insects overnight.  

If you do encounter Garden Orb-weavers have no fear.  They rarely bite humans and are not poisonous.  Take a close look and enjoy their intricate beauty.  

[melanie--1313]

Found this guy in the front yard.