Bridge-associated
Guides
Larinioides sclopetarius
bridge-spider, gray cross spider, grey cross spider, bridge orbweaver
Larinioides sclopetarius is a relatively large orb-weaving spider in the family Araneidae with Holarctic distribution. Native to Europe, it has been introduced to North America and is strongly associated with human-made structures, particularly bridges, where it builds webs near artificial light sources over water. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism in body mass and leg proportions, with males maturing faster and earlier than females. It is notable for its high density aggregations in urban environments, where light-attracted insect prey supports populations of up to 100 individuals per square meter in optimal feeding locations.