It’s All in the Details

Signature Spider

FIELD NOTES

Nishant Andrews

9/20/20181 min read

It’s All In The Details

Under the thick shade of a Snake plant leaves, I chanced upon a Signature Spider (Argiope anasuja) resting after having meticulously weaved an intricate web- each strand carefully placed to perfection.

With a keen eye for detail, it had ensured the silk was nearly invisible in the rays of the sun- hanging just above the ground to ensnare unsuspecting insects.

As this beautiful little creature settles into the centre of its creation, it adopts a deceptive posture, holding its legs together to mimic the appearance of a harmless object. Its vibrant markings further enhance the illusion, resembling a flower rather than a predator awaiting its prey.

Intricately woven into the design is a zigzag pattern, strategically placed to deter larger creatures from disturbing its delicate trap.

Truly a patient hunter and skilled strategist in the art of survival.

a close up of a spider on a web
a close up of a spider on a web