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Details of the Orb Weaver
CHARACTERISTICS: Orb Weavers come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Common traits among some include the rounded abdomen and orange-to-brown and brown or black coloring - those this colors may vary per species. Legs of an Orb Weaver are generally very long, giving it a most menacing look, and their overall body size can range from 6mm for males and up to 10mm to 20mm for the females.
Habitats can range from grass to corners of homes or under protected porches. Their webs are clearly their operating stage as the Orb Weaver sits in the middle, head facing downwards, waiting for prey to come upon their net. If the spider is not found in the middle of the web, it is usually nearby monitoring the web by way of a "signal" line still attached to the spider. The moment a prey gets entangled in the sticky web, the spider can come out to finish the job.
It is reported that Orb Weavers will re-spin a new web every night. Their proficiency at nighttime hunting and propensity to enjoy insects makes them the ultimate in the way of mosquito zappers. If you find an Orb Weaver near your front door or deck, and it is not in an intimidating area for you or your guests, keep it around and you'll notice the mosquito population dwindle in the dusk-to-nighttime hours.
ADULT SIZE (Length, not including legs):
6mm to 20mm
(0.24in to 0.79in) (Compare Size)
IDENTIFYING COLORS: orange, brown, yellow, black
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Courtesy of Armand v.Z. & Thomas F. from Kerrville, TX
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| More Pictures of the Orb Weaver: |
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| Images @InsectIdentification.org • Hover over each image to view submission credit |
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Kingdom: Animalia
