The Parasite & The Spider. 2010_07_31 (2.38pm) Saturday
On Friday 30th July I found a tiny spider (abdomen diameter approx 5mm) in its nest on a tree with a 'maggot' like parasite attached. I took a couple of photos expecting the spider to be dead by the next day.
Next day when I checked I found the parasite on its own in the web. The little spider had moved camp and appeared okay. I also found two of the spiders (one a bit darker than the other) maybe its mate.
Update: 5th August 2010. I could not see either of the two spiders today. We do have a wide variety of birds etc all looking for something to eat...
The parasite was still in the web and had encased itself some sort of cocoon. I am not sure if it is still alive but I will keep an eye on the cocoon.
The Parasite & The Spider. 2010_07_31 (2.38pm) Saturday
On Friday 30th July I found a tiny spider (abdomen diameter approx 5mm) in its nest on a tree with a 'maggot' like parasite attached. I took a couple of photos expecting the spider to be dead by the next day.
Next day when I checked I found the parasite on its own in the web. The little spider had moved camp and appeared okay. I also found two of the spiders (one a bit darker than the other) maybe its mate.
Update: 5th August 2010. I could not see either of the two spiders today. We do have a wide variety of birds etc all looking for something to eat...
The parasite was still in the web and had encased itself some sort of cocoon. I am not sure if it is still alive but I will keep an eye on the cocoon.