| Picture © 2005, , FBCP |
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European Garden Spider - Araneus diadematus
Also known as Garden Spider, Cross Spider
Very common garden species of Orb-web spider, especially in the autumn. Recognised by a characteristic white patterning on the back of the abdomen forming a "cross", with a "staircase" pattern to the sides of the back, males ♂ are smaller than the female ♀. Usually found in woodlands, heathlands and gardens, although a lot of activity in their area can discourage them. They build a circular or "Orb" web and can be found waiting for prey either sitting at the center of the web facing downwards or in a retreat at the end of a signal line held by two legs. Spiderlings of Araneus diadematus are black and yellow and look almost identical to adults except for the markings.
Spider silk is the almost the strongest of all fibres, even that of silk. Compared to Steel the dragline of an A. diadematus can support a weight of 0.5g, whilst steel of similar thickness will support just 0.25g.
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