Cross Orb-Weaver Spider: How to Identify -

The Cross orb-weaver spider is a shy creature that only bites people if they corner or threaten it. To protect itself, this spider will shake rapidly in its web until it becomes a blur – an action meant to confuse would-be predators.

Cross orb-weaver spider: Identification.

The Cross orb-weaver spider (aka, European garden spider, diadem spider, orangie, cross spider, and crowned orb weaver), is scientifically classified as Araneus diadematus. However, it goes by other names, such as the pumpkin spider, although this can be confused with another species: Araneus marmoreus.

This particular type of orb-weaving arachnid is native to Europe but has spread its webby wings over to North America, where it now resides too!

Cross orb-weaver spiders vary significantly in color, from the faintest yellow to a deep grey. Uniquely though, all of them have white mottling on their backs with four or more segments that form a cross shape. In terms of length, adult females reach up to 0.8 inches while males grow as long as 0.5 inches – and what’s more, they can sometimes consume the male after mating!

Cross orb-weaver spider: Hunting and webbing styles.

Orb-weaver spiders have evolved specialized legs to create their iconic orb webs. These intricately woven webs are constructed by the enormous female spider, who can hang suspended in the center of her web or lurk within neighboring foliage with one claw connected firmly onto a signal line that serves as an alarm for when potential prey appears.

Upon sensing something nearby, these formidable arachnids quickly bite and wrap their victims in silk before storing them for future consumption.

To immobilize the prey and protect herself from being stung, a spider takes its first bite to inject paralyzing enzymes that begin liquefying the internal structures of her victim.

In addition to using webs as hunting grounds, spiders sometimes cannibalize one another just before, during, or after mating; this is determined by their size, sexual experience, and hunger levels.