While enjoying a walk on the Paw Paw Nature Trail my eye was drawn to an elaborate web of silk with a distinct zigzag in the middle. Before me was an impressive Black and Yellow Argiope (Argiope aurantia), a type of orb weaver. The spider’s cephalothorax (small front body part) had distinct silver hairs and its abdomen (large back section) was oval to egg shaped with distinctive black and yellow markings. The spider’s body was approximately .5 inches in length, with long legs that have black and red bands. Upon further observation, I noticed that each leg of the spider had three claws on the ends, which is characteristic of the family.

As you enjoy time outdoors, whether it is taking a walk, sitting on the porch or strolling on the Paw Paw Nature Trail, take a moment and see if you can spy a spider. Without disturbing the web or handling the spider, observe the cephlothorax and abdomen, note its size, does it have distinctive colors or markings? Record as much information as possible then come to Charlotte Nature Museum and we will try to identify it together.

On Saturday, October 31, the Museum will have a host of spiders on exhibit with other cool creepy crawlies during October’s Creature Feature, Spooky Spiders & Creepy Crawlies, come to the Museum and bring your notes to share with local arachnologists.