My friends from my last job in Wisconsin always give me a good reaction when I email them bug pictures. Wisconsin's insects are generally on the small end of the spectrum. With the exception of Wisconsin mossies (mosquitos), they're bigger than Australia's (at least as far as I've seen).
I was glad this picture turned out since I had to get low to take it from the right angle and I could only stay in that position for one shot. We've had webs larger than this one. Last week there were a couple in the front yard that must have been a good 10 -12 feet across. I don't know how the spiders get across (unless they are using tiny jet packs). This one is a mere 5 ft across (as measured from the closest branch of the orange tree to the corner of the porch). Yes Don, we have palm trees and an orange tree.
As much as I'd hate to walk into one of these, they also make me want to not spray. Most of the spiders around the house are non threatening and do a great job of keeping down the population of bugs (and mice, and kangaroos...) Plus I don't want the dogs to be sniffing in the poison residue. I could get along well enough with the Huntsmans, but the Redbacks have to go.
That is GORGEOUS. I've always sorta loved spider webs...the intricacy that goes into the building of such a creation, how resistant they are to wind, rain. Just amazing. We get some big ones in KY too, we've got a big collection of spider species, like yours, most are harmless, except of course for the recluse...bad guys.
ReplyDeleteI hope you are talking about kangaroo rats
ReplyDeletePretty big spider to keep away a kangaroo...