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Walnut orb-weaver spider

Walnut orb-weaver spider

Nuctenea umbratica

A species of Nuctenea

The walnut orb-weaver spider( Nuctenea umbratica) is widespread in western and central Europe, commonly seen under the bark of dead trees, garden sheds, and sometimes show up inside houses. It has a walnut colored, flattened abdomen which is a great help to secret this timid spider in the cracks.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
General Info About Walnut orb-weaver spider
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Attributes of Walnut orb-weaver spider
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
wall crevice; loose bark
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, crawling insects, small arthropods, like moths, beetles, and small spiders
Larva Food Source
Small insects, such as aphids and baby crickets
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Walnut orb-weaver spider 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 Walnut orb-weaver spider typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Walnut orb-weaver spider
It is widely distributed in Central Europe.
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Distribution Area of Walnut orb-weaver spider
North Atlantic
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Appearance of Walnut orb-weaver spider
The walnut orb-weaver spider is very wide and flattened, with a leathery skin. Its color ranges from red brown and grey brown to black with a dark, yellowish to yellow-greenish leaf-like fleckled marking on its opisthosoma, where small dents are visible. Female Nuctenea umbratica can reach up to 1.5 cm in size, the males grow only up to 8 mm.
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How to Identify Walnut orb-weaver spider?

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Adult Size of Walnut orb-weaver spider
8 - 15 mm
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Predators of Walnut orb-weaver spider Larvae
Frogs, toads, larger spiders, birds, insectivorous mammals
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Predators of Adult Walnut orb-weaver spider
Birds, wasps, larger spiders, lizards, small mammals
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Interesting Facts About Walnut orb-weaver spider
Walnut orb-weaver spider can adjust its pigment to match the bark it resides on, changing its color to optimize camouflage over time.
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Scientific Classification of Walnut orb-weaver spider
Tips for Finding Walnut orb-weaver spider
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Youth Habitat of Walnut orb-weaver spider
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Walnut orb-weaver spider
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Walnut orb-weaver spider
No specific trap food is required to find walnut orb-weaver spider, as they typically build webs to catch prey.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Walnut orb-weaver spider
The best time to find adult walnut orb-weaver spider is at night when they are most active rebuilding their webs.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Walnut orb-weaver spider
Mild, damp weather at night may increase the chances of finding walnut orb-weaver spider, as these conditions are suitable for their prey to be active.
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How and Where Can You Find Walnut orb-weaver spider at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile walnut orb-weaver spider can be found near their hatch site, which is typically sheltered and close to a food source. Look for smaller webs in vegetation or under rocks.
Adult Subadult walnut orb-weaver spider are larger and begin to migrate to different locations. They can be found in areas with more abundant prey, typically near outdoor lighting or garden spaces.
Walnut orb-weaver spider adults are fully grown and can be found in their large orb webs. Look for them in undisturbed areas like forests or the corners of buildings and windows, especially after dusk.
Are Walnut orb-weaver spider harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Walnut orb-weaver spider
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Toxic to Animals
Icon toxic for
Bite Humans
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Toxic to Animals

Typically, walnut orb-weaver spider intoxicates by injecting venom through its fangs when biting. The venom is only mildly toxic, serving as a defense mechanism to deter potential threats rather than for hunting. Humans, dogs, cats, and other small mammals might experience minor irritation or slight discomfort if bitten. Similarly, birds, lizards, and amphibians could suffer local effects. For insects, the venom may be more disabling, interrupting their muscle control or causing more significant harm due to their smaller size and different physiology.

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Bite Humans

Walnut orb-weaver spider typically does not exhibit aggressive behavior towards humans. Bites are extremely rare, generally occurring only in self-defense if the spider feels threatened. Due to their timid nature, adults may bite as a last resort, using their fangs. The consequence of a bite is usually mild, resulting in minimal discomfort.

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