Goldenrod Spider

Misumena vatia

Goldenrod Spiders and other members of the crab spider family like to sit and wait at the edge of an open flower and then grab insects as they land. The spider injects venom into the prey, which turns the prey's insides into liquid. Then the spider sucks out this soupy food through the small hole created by its fangs.

Look For : Female is yellow to white with red streaks on each side of the abdomen; a reddish-brown spot is between the eyes. Also called Flower Spider.

Length : 3/8".

Habitat : Meadows, fields, and gardens on white or yellow flowers.

Range : Widespread.