The return of the banana spiders is a sure sign of fall approaching down in Cajun country. Here are more pictures and stories of this welcome garden visitor. http://cappyandpegody.blogspot.com/2015/08/could-ya-try-not-to-get-creeped-out-by.html
Have you ever read the book or seen the movie Charlotte's Web? Charlotte was an Orb Spider aka Writing Spider. I have had a few in my yard over the years.
Cappy, we have those spiders in the tomatoes, in the flowers, and in the herb garden. They are great at capturing the less-beneficial insects, which is why they are called "gardener's friends". I love their zig-zag webs!
I haven't seen a one this year. That is interesting to me. I usually have them all over the garden. I'll have to start watching for them.
Carolyn, we have extras, lots and lots of extras. Look for a package in the mail that is moving. I suggest opening the package outdoors.
They go by lots of different names, but down here in Cajun country I have always known them as banana spiders possibly cause of their yellow bodies or maybe for some other reason........Who knows
I haven't seen anything like them here in Scotland but I wouldn't harm them if they moved in. All spiders are welcome to set up home in my garden and they do a great job of keeping the nasties to, more or less, acceptable levels.
I did see them in Texas but it must get too cold here for them. All spiders are welcome at my place too, other than Hoboes. They are not only poisonous but can be very aggressive and even chase a person!
Thanks for sharing Dona that's one fat happy looking spidey. It looks like she is doing you a good job.