September 12, 2017

Location: Fellsmere, my yard

I'm a female Crab-like Spiny Orbweaver,
Shown here from the underside.
I only live for 2-5 weeks, lay my eggs,
And then I die.

In this picture you can see
My navel-like spinneret.
It's where I produce the silk to make my web
I live a short life with no time for  regrets.

Sources: Encyclopedia of Life - Gasteracantha cancriformis - Crab-like Spiny Orb Weaver

Photo and text © 2017 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

September 11, 2017

Location: Fellsmere, my yard

I'm a female Crab-like Spiny Orbweaver
I look scary, but really I'm not.
Just think of my thorns as a pretty crown,
And my black spots as beauty marks.

Source: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/g_cancriformis.htm

Photo and text © 2017 Dee Fairbanks Simpson