DESCRIPTION: Length 12 - 20mm. The abdomen of this agile predator is grey with the upper surface covered with brown spots. The legs are long, strong and coloured grey and black. The eyes are large and brown in colour. The thorax is grey and brown and, like the legs, covered in loosely scattered long black bristles. The females have a ring of spikes at the end of their ovipositors which they use to make a hollow in the sand to lay their eggs in. BEHAVIOUR: Usually seen in loosely scattered groups sitting on pathways and making quick dashes when in pursuit of prey or when disturbed. DISTRIBUTION: Locally common throughout. HABITAT: Coastal dune areas. PERIOD: June to October. |
