These widespread, strikingly-colored orb weavers are sexually dimorphic, with females being 9-18 mm long and males being only 6-8 mm long. They are highly varied in color, but are commonly known for their bright yellow and orange “marbled” patterns. They construct webs and prey on a variety of insects. Juveniles are hatched in early spring, mature throughout the season, mate and lay egg sacs in July-September, and die in the Fall after reproducing.
These orb weavers are widespread throughout the entire northern hemisphere, and are well suited to a wide variety of habitats including forests, prairies, agricultural fields, riparian areas, and man-made settings.
The orange/yellow morph of this species is also commonly known as “pumpkin spider”.
Volunteers at BugGuide helped to identify specimen “A”, which was found by Kate Murphy on the upland boardwalk. Specimen “B” was photographed by Mick Szydlowski in September 2011.
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