ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Black and Yellow Garden Spider

 Black and Yellow Garden Spider

Black and yellow garden spider
Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery
 		 Although some people are concerned about being bitten by the black and yellow garden spider, these large spiders are not considered dangerous. They may bite when harassed, but apparently the venom does not cause problems for humans.

Black and Yellow Garden Spider
Argiope aurantia

At-a-Glance

• Web type: Orb web

• Typical Foods: small flying insects such as aphids, flies, and grasshoppers
 
Description
Although the females are bigger, both sexes are black with orange or yellow markings. The legs are mostly black, with red or yellow portions near the body.

Habitat and Habits
This garden spider can be found in a variety of habitats, but prefers sunny areas among flowers and plants.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The eggs of this species hatch in the egg case in the autumn, but the young spiders do not leave the egg case until the following spring. They reach maturity by the next autumn, when they mate, lay eggs, and then die.