Garden-spider
Guides
Araneus diadematus
European garden spider, cross orbweaver, diadem spider, cross spider, crowned orb weaver, pumpkin spider
Araneus diadematus is a medium-sized orb-weaving spider native to Europe, now naturalized across North America. Adult females reach 6.5–20 mm in body length, males 5.5–13 mm. The species is named for the distinctive white cross-shaped pattern on its dorsal abdomen, formed by guanine deposits. It constructs classic spiral orb webs with 25–30 radial threads at approximately 15° angles, often positioned in gardens, porches, and other human-modified habitats. The spider is diurnal, typically hanging head-down at the web hub, and exhibits a defensive vibrating behavior when disturbed.
Argiope
Garden Orbweavers, St Andrew's Cross Spiders, Writing Spiders, Garden Spiders
Argiope is a genus of large, colorful orb-weaving spiders in the family Araneidae. The name derives from Greek, meaning 'silver-faced,' referring to the silvery cephalothorax characteristic of many species. Females are notably larger than males and often display striking abdominal color patterns in yellow, black, and silver. These spiders construct spiral orb webs that frequently include a conspicuous zigzag silk structure called a stabilimentum. The genus has a worldwide distribution, with species found across tropical and temperate regions on every continent except Antarctica.
Argiope aurantia
yellow garden spider, black and yellow garden spider, golden garden spider, writing spider, zigzag spider, zipper spider, black and yellow argiope, corn spider, Steeler spider, McKinley spider
Argiope aurantia is a large orb-weaving spider recognized by its bold yellow and black abdominal markings and distinctive web architecture. Females construct conspicuous circular webs up to 60 cm in diameter, featuring a dense zigzag band of silk called a stabilimentum at the center. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: females reach 19–28 mm in body length with a mass around 752 mg, while males are substantially smaller at 5–9 mm. This spider is common in gardens, meadows, and open habitats across much of North America, where it serves as a significant predator of insects and other small arthropods.
Enoplognatha ovata
candy-striped spider, common candy-striped spider, polymorphic spider
Enoplognatha ovata is a small theridiid spider native to Europe and introduced to North America. The species exhibits striking color polymorphism, with three main morphs varying in abdominal pigmentation from plain to striped patterns. Despite its diminutive size (4-7 mm), it is an effective predator capable of capturing prey substantially larger than itself. Females construct tangled webs on the undersides of leaves and demonstrate maternal care by guarding egg sacs and provisioning spiderlings.