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Four-spot orb-weaver

Four-spot orb-weaver

Araneus quadratus

A species of Garden spider

Females can reach 1.7 cm in length, especially when gravid, males approximately half that. They are quite variable in appearance, ranging from brown to bright orange or green, but they always have the characteristic four white spots on the abdomen. The darker color morphs are easier to identify, due to the contrast between the white spots and the rest of the body. The legs are sometimes brightly striped. Adult females can actively change their color.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
General Info About Four-spot orb-weaver
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Attributes of Four-spot orb-weaver
Colors
Brown
Yellow
White
Orange
Habitat
garden; wooded area
Adult Food Sources
Flies, beetles, moths, aphids, other small arthropods
Larva Food Source
Small insects, insect larvae, juvenile spiders, springtails, mites
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Four-spot orb-weaver can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Four-spot orb-weaver typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Four-spot orb-weaver
It is found in Europe and Central Asia, and as far as the Kamchatka Peninsula and Japan.
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Distribution Area of Four-spot orb-weaver
Europe, Central Asia, Kamchatka Peninsula, Japan
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Appearance of Four-spot orb-weaver
Females can reach 1.7 cm in length, especially when gravid, males approximately half that. They are quite variable in appearance, ranging from brown to bright orange or green, but they always have the characteristic four white spots on the abdomen. The darker color morphs are easier to identify, due to the contrast between the white spots and the rest of the body. The legs are sometimes brightly striped.
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How to Identify Four-spot orb-weaver?

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Adult Size of Four-spot orb-weaver
1.7 cm
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Predators of Four-spot orb-weaver Larvae
Wasps, ants, birds, larger spiders
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Predators of Adult Four-spot orb-weaver
Birds, wasps, praying mantises, lizards, centipedes
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Interesting Facts About Four-spot orb-weaver
Four-spot orb-weaver can vary its color to match its surroundings, a rare ability amongst spiders, enhancing its camouflage.
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Scientific Classification of Four-spot orb-weaver
Tips for Finding Four-spot orb-weaver
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Youth Habitat of Four-spot orb-weaver
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Four-spot orb-weaver
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Four-spot orb-weaver
Since four-spot orb-weaver are predators that feed on insects, a good trapping strategy would be to use live insects or insect pheromones as bait in order to attract four-spot orb-weaver.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Four-spot orb-weaver
The best time to find adult four-spot orb-weaver is generally late summer to early fall, as they are most active during this period. Early morning or late afternoon are suitable times when these creatures are likely to be found on their webs.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Four-spot orb-weaver
Four-spot orb-weaver prefer mild to warm weather with low wind conditions, as high winds can damage their webs. Humid or damp conditions may also make their silk more visible due to the tiny water droplets that adhere to it.
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How and Where Can You Find Four-spot orb-weaver at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile four-spot orb-weaver can be found near the ground or on low vegetation. Search through leaf litter and inspect the undersides of leaves and low-hanging branches for their small, delicate webs.
Adult As four-spot orb-weaver grow, they begin to move higher up into vegetation. Look for subadult four-spot orb-weaver by checking shrubs and taller plants, especially in spots that attract plenty of insect traffic.
Four-spot orb-weaver adults are larger and create more substantial webs, typically in a classic orb shape. These webs are often constructed between branches of trees, tall plants, or structures such as fences and eaves. Look closely for the adult four-spot orb-weaver sitting at the center or edge of the web during its most active hours.
Are Four-spot orb-weaver harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Four-spot orb-weaver
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Toxic to Animals
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Bite Humans
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Toxic to Animals

The four-spot orb-weaver uses its fangs to inject venom, functioning for both predation and defense. Its venom is mild and often leads to minor reactions in animals such as humans, dogs, and cats, who may experience local discomfort or slight swelling. Meanwhile, smaller mammals might have more pronounced reactions due to their size. Insects, being much smaller, could suffer more serious consequences from the venom, which can swiftly immobilize them. Adult four-spot orb-weaver possess this capability and are the life stage typically responsible for the secretion of toxins.

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Bite Humans

Four-spot orb-weaver typically does not bite humans. Bites are rare, occurring primarily in self-defense when the spider feels threatened. If a bite happens, it generally uses its fangs to deliver a mild and normally harmless bite, with immediate effects including minor irritation and localized pain.

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