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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.