Black-legged Golden Orb-web spider

There are only three species of Nephila in South Africa and this one is widespread throughout the country. The males are much smaller than the females and sneak up on the females while they are busy eating. Copulation can take as long as 15 hours, he then sneaks away again as if nothing happened. The young spiderlings cannibalise each other and then disperse. Despite their formidable appearance it is very unlikely for people to get bitten by these spiders and although their bite can be painful, it is not dangerous.

comments (9)

travismorhardt

Lion

I must admit, Claire, I am somewhat envious of the amazing critters you find and capture! I would love to see more spiders like this in the states! Posted 11 years ago
1. Claire Hamilton
  
  Lion
  
  Quite amazing aren't they! I just popped out to the garden to see if there was anything interesting and almost walked into this one! Posted 11 years ago

Claire Hamilton

Lion

http://www.jungledragon.com/image/15321
This is one of the males Posted 11 years ago

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Tell us your secret Claire. You skipped a few steps in between macro beginner and expert. Posted 11 years ago
1. Claire Hamilton
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks Ferdy, I wish I could agree though, when I see the quality of photos by Blackdiamond I can get despondent, but also he gives me the incentive to try harder! Posted 11 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    As awesome as those are, you should know that they are manipulated. Manipulated very well, and that is a work of art in its own, but it's an entirely different style that cannot be compared. Posted 11 years ago
  2. 1. Claire Hamilton
      
      Lion
      
      Thanks for that Ferdy, I know there is so much you can do to improve a photo like focus stacking etc. At the moment I shall try to improve the photo out of camera before doing all those arty farty things! Posted 11 years ago

Frankhuizen Photography

Lion

Amazing macro's Claire! Posted 11 years ago
1. Claire Hamilton
  
  Lion
  
  Thank you!!! Posted 11 years ago

The Black-legged Nephila

A member of the genus Nephila, the golden silk orb-weavers, the black-legged nephila is native to most of South Africa. It can be found in or near forested areas, where it hangs its web and waits for its prey.

Info 3 0

Similar species: Spiders

Species identified by travismorhardt