Black and Yellow Garden Spider
Argiope aurantia · Also known as: writing spider, zipper spider, corn spider
The classic big orb-weaver of late summer. Black, yellow, and silver webs span marsh grasses and garden fences from Assateague to mainland Ocean City.
Quick facts
| Group | Spider |
|---|---|
| Likelihood nearby | ★★★★☆ |
| Habitats | Salt marsh, Maritime forest, Mainland near OC, Assateague State Park, Assateague National Seashore |
| Seasons (this coast) | summer, fall |
How to recognize them
- Large spider with yellow-and-black abdomen and long banded legs; builds big vertical orb webs with a thick zigzag stabilimentum.
- Female dominates the web; much smaller males orbit nearby late in the season.
Biology notes
- Orb-web predator of grasshoppers, dragonflies, and moths; rebuilds webs daily.
- Harmless to people despite size; shakes the web when disturbed as a warning.
Where to see them around Ocean City
- Assateague marsh trail railings, interpretive garden plots, and tall grass edges.
- Ocean City community gardens, hotel landscaping, and vacant-lot goldenrod stands.
- Fence lines and boat-rack areas near coastal bays.
When to look
- August–October when females reach full size.
Viewing tips & etiquette
- Approach slowly—the zigzag “writing” in the web is a field mark, not decoration.
- Do not destroy webs in public habitat; they clear flying pests through fall.
