A NEW addition to the borough’s countryside is a colourful wasp – or is it a spider?
It’s definitely a spider, although anyone spotting it could be forgiven for making the mistake.
Argiope bruennichi is a wasp spider that bears vivid yellow and black stripes.
It has recently been observed during recent conservation work around the pond at Hazebrouck Meadow in Arborfield, where volunteers were excited to discover the harmless mimicking creature.
Originally from the Mediterranean, it was first seen in the UK in the 1920s, and has gradually expanded its range, particularly along the south coast.
Spider wasps are becoming more common in the UK mainly due to the warming climate and natural spread of their numbers.
Prefering grasslands, they build large orb-shaped webs that often feature a distinctive zig-zag silk pattern.
Though the spiders look dramatic, they pose no threat to humans.
Their stripy disguise is a defence mechanism designed to protect them from predators unwilling to try a mouthful of what they suspect is a wasp.
Their presence at Hazebrouck Meadow is a promising sign that work to manage the site is helping to support biodiversity and attract a wider range of species.
Lots of residents have also spotted wasp spiders in their gardens, and have been comparing sightings online.
Opinions are divided.
‘Cutie’, ‘gorgeous’, ‘creepy’, and – just ‘nope’ are just some of the comments posted.
‘They’re cool,” said one person, “leave them alone.”
Wasp spiders are a rare and fascinating find in the UK to be enjoyed and marvelled at.
For information, visit: wildlifetrusts.org
