Huge Golden Orb spider found in Ladysmith

A female Golden Orb (Nephila) spider was found on a property in Ladysmith recently. The web was huge and so was the spider on it!

The Golden Orb spider is so named because of the colour of its silk. It is thought that this colour may serve two purposes: in the sunlight it will attract bees drawn to the bright yellow, whereas in shadow it becomes camouflaged in the foliage, thus ensnaring other insects.

A female Golden Orb spider can have an abdomen of up to 30mm long.

She dwarfs the tiny 5mm male in both size and weight. In almost all Nephila species, the male is in danger of being devoured by the female after mating.

Also read: Dangerous spider found in Ladysmith

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To avoid being cannibalised, the male will approach the female when she is already feeding, or present her with a parcel of food to eat. While the female is distracted, the male will fertilize her and then retreat to a safe distance.

The bite of Golden Orb weaving spiders is of low risk (not toxic) to humans. Symptoms may include mild pain, numbness and swelling. Occasionally nausea and dizziness can occur. They seldom bite though.

However, be careful not to walk into their webs at night, as the experience of this spider crawling over one’s face can be terrifying.

If you see this spider, you will now know what species it is. As for me, I will just run, as I am terrified of spiders!

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