Species File: Wasp Spider

Wasp Spider Agriope bruennichi

This striking species of spider is thought to have been introduced from continental Europe and was first recorded in Britain in 1922.

They were previously only found on the warmer south coast but are spreading north as the climate changes.

They can be found in long, unmanaged grass, and low vegetation and feed on flying insects, beetles and grasshoppers.

Females are 11-15mm with a silvery thorax and black yellow and white markings on the abdomen.
Males are much smaller (4-4.5mm) and are pale brown.