Arrowhead Orbweaver (Verrucosa arenata) ♀

In a dense mixed hardwood/coniferous forest in NW Georgia (Gordon County), US.

Verrucosa arenata is a species of fishing spider or orbweaver which builds large, loose webs between trees each morning. They remove old webs at sunrise before constructing new ones. This species is unusual in that it usually hangs upside-down (head up) in its web.

Note: These are extremely common on our forested land, and I enjoy observing them so much! They respond dramatically to the sound of one's voice, rapidly extending their legs (usually held tightly to the body) horizontally.