St Andrews Cross
The St Andrews Cross spider is a common spider in the Top End.
It is a non venomous and usually non-aggressive (when left alone) orb spider which captures prey in large webs.
The webs themselves are usually decorated with a cross radiating from the middle.
This cross is thought to have a umber of functions including deterring animals such as birds from flying into it and attracting insects by way of extra UV light reflection.
The brightly coloured women of the house builds the web and is the boss of the house and generally sits in the middle of the web with the diminutive male loitering on the peripheral.
When it’s time to have a family any hanky panky is done at the males peril.
These little fellas can often be seen nursing a missing leg or other parts after the act.
Keep your eyes open around Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park.
Image taken at Litchfield National Park – Wangi Falls
A relevant Day tour from Darwin is ethical adventures Litchfield Wanderer tour.