Autumn-phenology
Guides
Metellina segmentata
Autumn spider, Eurasian Armoured Long-jawed Spider, Meta segmentata
Metellina segmentata is an orb-weaving spider in the family Tetragnathidae, commonly known as the Autumn spider due to its late-season adult activity. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: males possess longer legs and a broader prosoma, while females are markedly heavier with a larger opisthosoma adapted for egg production. Adults mature from August to October, with males competing aggressively for access to female webs through ritualized contests influenced by relative body size, prior residency, and female reproductive value. The species builds characteristic orb webs with a radial frame supporting spiral sticky silk, typically positioned 0.5–2 meters above ground in edge habitats.