ADULT: Female up to 18mm, males smaller. This spider is a beautiful member of the Arachnid family, its main identification points being the 4 white spots on the variably coloured abdomen that can be anything from brown, to russet-red to light yellow-green.  Towards the rear of these points are some wavy lines that converge towards the spinnerets.  The legs are annulated and are banded.  The carapace has a series of dark bands. BEHAVIOUR: The web is found is substantial vegetation that can support such a large structure.  The web is usually found stretched across the gap between plants, with a large tent-like retreat at one side, where the spider can be found if not in the centre of the web.  It feeds on grasshoppers, flies, butterflies and other insects.  Females breed only once and then die after laying their eggs. HABITAT: Thick undisturbed grassland and vegetation are preferred, usually places with lots of Heather, Gorse and thick grass.  There seems to be a liking for moist areas. DISTRIBUTION: Thick undisturbed grassland and vegetation are preferred, usually places with lots of Heather, Gorse and thick grass.  There seems to be a liking for moist areas. PERIOD: June to October.