Araneus diadematus
Araneus • Araneidae
The familiar cross-marked garden orb-weaver of Europe and, now, North America. It is an outdoor annual not commonly kept indoors, so captive care is generalized orb-weaver husbandry: a tall, airy mesh enclosure with twig anchor points for the orb it rebuilds most days, cool-to-mild temperatures, a daily light mist, and flying prey such as flies and small crickets. Shy and non-aggressive, dropping from the web when disturbed; mild venom, harmless to humans. Solitary.
Temperature
60-80°F
Humidity
55-70%
Prey size: flying insects, crickets
Type
orb-weaver (web)
Adult Size
female up to ~1 in, male smaller
Growth Rate
fast
Native Region
Europe; introduced to North America
Temperament
shy, non-aggressive; drops from web when disturbed; harmless
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