I’m not one for spiders. As a matter of fact, I really don’t like them at all. But that doesn’t stop me from appreciating them as a part of this planet’s wildlife and therefore a great photo subject.
From back in my Ontario travels, I came across a couple of large Cross Spiders – otherwise known as the European Garden Spider, Orb Spider or “Araneus diadematus”.
The photos here are of adult females. The males are much smaller, and generally consumed by the female after mating. A sure sign of “entitled feminism” perhaps? (best left for ranting about at another time).
After doing a bit of research, I’ve discovered that the cross spider is common throughout a wide range of habitats, including gardens, meadows, woodland clearings and your home near exterior lighting.
This spider can bite humans when it needs to defend itself, and the bite is similar to a low strength bee sting. Though uncomfortable, it’s generally harmless to humans.
I had fun grabbing this close up macro photos, and the spiders went unharmed after the photo shoot despite the fact I had a slight shiver go up my spine when done getting up close and personal with these lovely ladies.
