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Garden Spider (Orb-Weaver)

Araneus diadematus

Garden Spiders have distinctive cross-shaped markings on their abdomen and spin spiral orb webs to catch flying insects. They hang head down in the web’s centre, quickly darting out when the strands vibrate. Around Lihou, look for these webs in sheltered spots between plant stems or bracken, glistening with water droplets on a misty day.

  • Habitat: Gardens, hedgerows, coastal vegetation—wherever they can spin large orb webs.
  • When to See: Summer through autumn, when adults reach full size.
  • Length: Females up to ~13 mm; males smaller