ADULT: The female is an impressive creature (see fig 1) with a size of up to 27mm reached. Males are usually only 7mm in length. The abdomens are striped yellow, black and white with the upper surface of the cephalothorax being silvery. The legs are banded with dark and pale areas. BEHAVIOUR: Constructs an orb web with a zig-zag pattern located within. Here it awaits grasshoppers and other grass dwelling insects. The females may be found with an attached egg case made from various grasses. HABITAT: Grassy areas, woodland edges, roadsides and coastal grassland. DISTRIBUTION: Southern Britain. PERIOD: All year round but the stunning females are easier to see in summer. |
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