Austracantha and related orb-weavers
Spiny Spider Identification in Australia
Small orb-weaver with a hard, spiny, brightly patterned abdomen in a small web.
Usually low riskSpiny spiders are distinctive little orb-weavers with a hard, spiked outline. Start with the web: a small circular capture web in low shrubs, grass or on a fence is more useful than colour alone. The bright white, yellow or orange pattern and the small hard abdomen help separate them from ordinary garden orb-weavers, while the spiny edge helps distinguish them from smoother jewel-like or camouflaged web spiders. They are usually a low-risk garden sighting, so avoid handling and use the web and body outline together for an identification.
Quick identification
- Small hard abdomen
- Spiny outline
- Bright white/yellow/orange patterning
- Sits in a small orb web
What to check next
Look for the spiked body shape in a small web.
When to seek medical help
Seek advice for severe or unusual symptoms.
Where it is usually seen
Garden shrubs, grasses, fences and low vegetation.