When they are this small, it’s nearly impossible to determine what species of orb weaver spider you’ve found. There are approximately 3,500 species of orb weavers worldwide, with 180 occurring north of Mexico. Once these babies disperse, the females will make the classic wheel-shaped webs that are commonly found around the outside of your house and in gardens, fields and forests. Males generally do not settle down and make webs …wandering in search of a mate instead.

Photo by: Glenn Marangelo on 5/17/21 in Missoula, MT