The cross orb weaver spider appears to be an import from Europe which has done very well in the New World (seen here in Centre County, Pennsylvania). Generally identified by it's pretty orb web and the cross-like pattern of white blotches on the abdomen, it is a fairly common spider to see around out buildings and such.
This spider spends most of its time at night in the center of the web, but also can do what this one is doing. It is holding a line with its rear leg that leads to the center of the web. Sort of like fishing, it is waiting for an insect to fly into the web and it will feel it on the line it has extended. This allows the spider to be protected and off the web yet still know when it has prey in the web.
This spider spends most of its time at night in the center of the web, but also can do what this one is doing. It is holding a line with its rear leg that leads to the center of the web. Sort of like fishing, it is waiting for an insect to fly into the web and it will feel it on the line it has extended. This allows the spider to be protected and off the web yet still know when it has prey in the web.
Cross orb weaver spider from Centre County, Pennsylvania
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