Argiope aurantia

If Charlotte’s Web had been based on this species of black and yellow garden spider, would it have been as endearing? This is the quintessence of creepy – long, sturdy black-tipped legs covered in cactus-like hairs; dull colored, lifeless and virtually faceless head; and broad abdomen with a bright menacing phantom emblem on its back.

Words and images by Michael J. Hall