Day 17: Connecting with nature to improve my wellbeing in the dark days of winter by finding a well hidden spider

The rain has started again. Another lot of persistent drizzle with mild temperatures. Once again I am outside in full waterproofs – my trusty torch in hand. I had high hopes for this evening after yesterday’s Bobby Dazzler. I am still excited about spotting the Vine Weevil.

Exciting Find in the Fern

I thought it would be beautiful to look at the Harts Tongue Fern that has naturally seeded in my wildlife garden. I was aiming to observe the Harts Tongue Fern by uplighting it with my torch – so I could look at the spores on the back of the leaf. However, as I crouched down to take a closer look, I could see a lovely web – and it looked recently spun. I bent down even lower on my haunches and that is when I saw the spider – upside down on it’s web. Tucked away sheltering under the fern leaf.

Splendid Spider

I could see the striped pattern on the legs of the spider and the the large abdomen. The shape of the spider led me to believe it may be a type of orb weaver. However, I was not going to disturb the spider or break its’ web just to identify the species. I am just really happy to have seen another wonderful invertebrate in my wildlife garden in the middle of December.

Spider Genders

This spider looks to be a female. The males have “boxing glove” appendages near their mouth. These are called pedipalps. Pedipalps is a fabulous word to say outloud. The males have pedipalp to hold their sperm. Females spiders do not have a need for these appendages.

Joy in Small Things

The spider tucked away, hiding in the fern fronds made me happy today. Watching the spider and observing the patternation of its’ legs and the beautiful design of its’ web brought some wonder and magic to this dark December day. Why not get outside and see if you can spot any spiders in your outdoor space this December? I love to hear from you if you do.