Golden Silk Orb-Weaver
Trichonephila clavipes
The silk appears golden in sunlight and ranks among the strongest natural fibers.
The silk appears golden in sunlight and ranks among the strongest natural fibers. Relocate pathways around established webs when practical. Avoid pesticides and direct handling.
Habitat:
Woodland Edges, Gardens, Trails, Shrub Borders
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Flying insects captured in a large orb web.
Behavior:
Females remain near large golden webs. Tiny males often share the web edge.
Day and Night
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Look during day and night in suitable Florida habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Common native spider
Safety Level:
Low Risk. Avoid Handling
Safety Information:
Relocate pathways around established webs when practical. Avoid pesticides and direct handling.
Benefits to Property:
Captures mosquitoes, flies, moths, beetles, and other flying insects.
Property Concerns:
Large webs stretch across paths and between shrubs.
Fun Fact:
The silk appears golden in sunlight and ranks among the strongest natural fibers.
Wildlife Laws:
Relocate pathways around established webs when practical. Avoid pesticides and direct handling.
Identification:
Large long-legged female with a silver body, orange-brown legs, and dark brush-like leg sections.
Credits:
Facts: wildlife reference. Images: primary image and secondary image, Wikimedia Commons.