Bird-dropping spider

Fact Box Species: Celaenia excavata (QM) Previous species name: Celaenia kinbergi Family: Araneidae formerly Argiopidae Body length: female: 12 mm male: 3 mm Habitat: On green leaves, notably in citrus orchards Toxicity: Uncertain; may be able to cause mild illness in humans

Retracted legs Extended legs Underside With egg sacs

This species gained its common name because its colouring, general appearance, and tendency to sit motionless with its legs drawn up against its body make it very difficult to distinguish from a bird dropping. Some people also refer to it as the orchard spider because it is so commonly seen in citrus and other orchards. There is little or no webbing to be seen in most instances.

Its egg sacs are quite commonly found but not recognized for what they are. They are brown papery spheres about 12 mm in diameter, sometimes tied loosely together by webbing. Faint darker stripes may be seen on them.

Spider(s) with a very similar appearance: Arkys curtulus and possible Celaenia species.