Species of the Month: October 2014

Garden Orb Spider: Araneus diadematus

 

A common sight during the autumn months, this large spider is surprisingly under-recorded - the SEWBReC database contains a mere 274 sightings. Although the species varies greatly in colour, the distinctive pale markings (often forming a cross) on the abdomen makes ID relatively straight forward. The common name comes from the beautiful orb webs created by the species, which will appear over night, often in gardens! More information about Araneus diadematus can be found on NatureSpot. You can view the Wales wide distribution map on Aderyn.

 If you spot this species during October (or at any other time of year) please send us the record, ideally via our Species of the Month form on SEWBReCORD or the LERC Wales App. Instructions on how to submit records are available here.