Texas Tick Identification: Dark Head, Brown Body

The yellow garden spider, also known as the golden orb-weaver, is a common sight in Texas gardens during late summer. These large spiders are easily recognizable due to their dark brown body and distinctive yellow patterns on their abdomen. But did you know that these harmless-looking spiders can inflict a painful bite if threatened?

Female yellow garden spiders lay up to 1,000 eggs at a time in a brown sac that measures about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The eggs are usually found hanging upside-down in the center of their webs, which they spin in the open to catch insects. Unlike some spider species, these orb-weavers don't hide in dark corners or under debris, preferring to build their webs in plain sight.

When disturbed, yellow garden spiders tend to scurry away quickly, but if threatened, they will bite. Their venom is not life-threatening, but it can cause significant pain and discomfort. Despite this, the yellow garden spider is generally harmless and plays an important role in controlling insect populations in Texas gardens.

The name 'orb-weaving' refers to the circular patterns these spiders spin on their sticky spiral webs. This species, Argiope aurantia, is part of a larger group of orb-weavers that are found worldwide. In Texas, you're likely to find yellow garden spiders hanging upside-down in the center of their webs, waiting for unsuspecting insects to wander by.

So next time you see a large spider with a dark brown body and yellow markings, remember that it's probably just a harmless yellow garden spider going about its business. Just be sure to keep an eye out for these impressive arachnids and respect their space – they're doing important work in your garden!

Texas tick identification dark head brown body