As spring turns into summer, Jeweled Araneus orb spiders become fairly common and can now be found throughout the GNG. Females of this species get quite large, measuring about ¾”, and are able to build orb webs measuring over 7 feet in diameter!
Jeweled Araneus ♀
Jeweled Araneus spiders are formidable hunters and can inflict a painful bite, but just like all spiders they perform an important roll in our environment and should be allowed to live in peace. Without spiders, so many insect populations would exist unchecked, creating an unnatural imbalance.
All spiders are vulnerable to predators as the wait patiently in their web. In the image on the right, this Jeweled Araneus quickly took up a defensive position (by making itself small) when a breeze pushed on its web.